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The Pros & Cons of SCHIP

According to the SCHIP Information Center, the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) is a program established by the U.S. federal government that is administered by each state government under its own title.

  1. Eligibility

    • SCHIP programs are available to children of families who do not have access to private health insurance and earn at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty level. The Centers for Medicaid & Medicare Services reports children ages 18 or younger are eligible, including homeless children.

    Pros

    • The Centers for Medicaid & Medicare Services reports the benefits of the SCHIP program include access to health care for children who would not receive health services such as immunizations and regular doctor checkups. The services provided by SCHIP include eye and dental care. These services are usually free or offered at a minimal cost.

    Cons

    • According to the American Academy of Pediatricians, opposition is still faced by SCHIP from political groups who regard state health care programs as welfare programs. Princeton University reports that in periods of economic problems, demand for SCHIP increases while taxation revenue falls, causing funding problems at both state and federal levels.

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