Children's Health Insurance Plan in San Antonio, Texas

CHIP, or the Children's Health Insurance Program, is a federally funded and state-administered program that assists families with young children access basic and catastrophic health care services. The program is run under the auspices of Medicaid, though Congress has authorized CHIP funding for a limited number of years. Unless Congress votes to extend the program, the authorization for Congressional CHIP funding will expire at the end of 2013.

Jurisdiction

• The insurance industry in the San Antonio area is regulated at the state level by the Texas Department of Insurance Regulation. All plans throughout the state of Texas must follow specific mandates imposed by state regulatory authorities. Specific providers, however, can vary by county.

Coverage

• In Texas, CHIP covers basic well-baby visits and checkups, immunizations, hospital care, physician's services, X-rays, mental health care, and lab tests. The plan also covers eye exams and glasses, dental cleanings and fillings and prescription drugs. Pre-existing conditions are covered under the plan.

Eligibility

• To qualify, the child must be a Texas resident, a legal resident or citizen of the United States, and under 18. Parental legal status is not a factor in application. Approvals are made without regard to whether the parents are in the U.S. illegally. Eligibility for CHIP is means-tested: You can view a chart detailing income qualifications at the link in Resources.

Available Plans

• As of 2010, Travis County has two providers administering CHIP benefits: Seton Health Plan (877-451-5601) and Superior Health Plans (800-820-5685).