About Washington Children's Health Insurance

Medical care is expensive. That fact comes to no surprise to the millions of Americans without health insurance. Some states have started programs to assist residents without coverage. In Washington, the Apple Health for Kids initiative is one such program.

Function

• The purpose of the Washington Apple Health for Kids initiative is to help families obtain medical coverage for their children. Depending on the family's income, minors can qualify for free coverage or low-cost insurance.

Types

• According to the Apple Health for Kids website, there are numerous types of services covered in the program. They include hospital care, emergency care, dental care, eye exams, physicals, immunizations and prescription coverage. Additionally, several treatments and procedures are covered, such as most surgeries, physical therapy and home health care.

Eligibility

• To qualify, families must have children who are under 19 years old. Eligibility for Apple Health for Kids is based on income. According to the program website, families that have an income below 200 percent of the federal poverty level receive free coverage for children. A small monthly fee is charged to families that have an income level between 200 and 300 percent of the federal poverty level.