How to Get a Medical Card at the Age of 17

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, having health insurance improves a child's performance in school. Studies have shown improvement in academic scores and school attendance rates among uninsured children who gain coverage. Yet one in five children remains uninsured. The recent Affordable Care Act has expanded health insurance options for children, as well as created new initiatives. If you are 17 years old and have no medical insurance, there are options available to you.

Instructions

• 1

  Apply for dependent coverage under your parent's health insurance plan. The Affordable Care Act allows young adults to stay on their parent's plan until they are 26 years old. There is no longer a requirement for children to be living with their parents to qualify. The Act also guarantees that children under 19 cannot be denied coverage because of pre-existing conditions.

• 2

  Go to your local county assistance office and apply for Medicaid. Medicaid is a state administered program for low income people. Every state sets its own income limits and eligibility guidelines. However, most states supply coverage to children under 21 years old. You can go to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services website for more information about each state's program.

• 3

  Request coverage through the Children's Health Insurance Program. CHIP provides free or low-cost health insurance for children and teens through age 19. CHIP is available in every state, although program details and income limits may vary. You may contact your state human services agency to request CHIP. You may also call the national number at 1-877-KIDS NOW to be connected to someone from your state.