Health insurance is a vital component of a family’s financial plan. When it comes to children, the stakes are even higher. Their growing bodies and changing medical needs make health insurance a top priority for parents. In Arkansas, the state government offers a program called ARKids First for families with low income to help cover medical expenses for children.
What is ARKids Insurance?
ARKids First is a health insurance program for children under the age of 19. The program is designed to help families who cannot afford health insurance cover the cost of their children’s healthcare. The program is funded by both the state and federal government and is administered by the Arkansas Department of Human Services.
ARKids is a program based on income and family size. The program has two separate plans: ARKids A and ARKids B. ARKids A provides full coverage for healthcare services such as doctor visits, hospital care, and prescription drugs. ARKids B is a limited benefit program that only covers certain services, such as doctor visits and immunizations.
Who is Eligible for ARKids Insurance?
Children under 19 years old who meet certain income requirements are eligible for ARKids. The income requirements vary depending on the size of the family. For example, a family of four cannot earn more than $34,846 to qualify for ARKids A, while a family of eight cannot earn more than $62,627.
Additionally, children may qualify for ARKids if they are in foster care, receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), or if they are American Indian/Alaska Native.
How to Apply for ARKids Insurance?
There are several ways to apply for ARKids insurance. The easiest and fastest way is to apply online through the Arkansas Department of Human Services website. Applicants can also apply in person at a local DHS office or by mail.
To apply, families will need to provide proof of income, such as tax returns or pay stubs, proof of Arkansas residency, and the child’s birth certificate or other proof of identity.
Benefits of ARKids Insurance
ARKids insurance provides several benefits for families who qualify. First and foremost, it helps cover the cost of healthcare for children who may not otherwise be able to access medical care. Additionally, ARKids insurance covers preventative care, such as immunizations and wellness check-ups, which can help children stay healthy and catch health issues early on.
ARKids A also covers dental and vision services, as well as mental health and substance abuse treatment.
Drawbacks of ARKids Insurance
While ARKids insurance provides important benefits for families, there are some drawbacks to the program. ARKids B is a limited benefit program and may not cover all of a child’s medical needs. Additionally, there may be long wait times for appointments and limited provider options, as not all healthcare providers accept ARKids insurance.
FAQs
Q: How do I know if my child qualifies for ARKids insurance?
A: Families can use the Arkansas Department of Human Services website to determine if their child qualifies for ARKids insurance.
Q: What services are covered under ARKids insurance?
A: ARKids A covers a wide range of healthcare services, including doctor visits, hospital care, prescription drugs, dental and vision care, and mental health and substance abuse treatment. ARKids B is a limited benefit program that only covers certain services, such as doctor visits and immunizations.
Q: Can I apply for ARKids insurance for my child even if I have health insurance?
A: No, families are only eligible for ARKids insurance if they do not have access to other health insurance coverage.
Q: How do I apply for ARKids insurance?
A: Families can apply for ARKids insurance online, in person at a local DHS office, or by mail. Applicants will need to provide documentation of income, Arkansas residency, and the child’s identity.
Q: How long does it take to get approved for ARKids insurance?
A: The application process can take up to 45 days to complete. Families will receive a notice of approval or denial by mail.
Conclusion
ARKids insurance is an important program for families in Arkansas who cannot afford health insurance for their children. The program provides comprehensive coverage for a wide range of healthcare services and is designed to help children receive the medical care they need to stay healthy. While there are some drawbacks to the program, the benefits far outweigh any potential negatives.
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