What is CHIP?

CHIP is short for the Children's Health Insurance Program, Pennsylvania's program to provide health insurance to uninsured children and teens who are not eligible for or enrolled in Medical Assistance. 

There are a lot of reasons kids might not have health insurance — maybe their parents lost a job, don't have health insurance at work, or maybe other options just cost too much. Whatever the reason, CHIP may be able to help.

NINE OUT OF 10 CHIP parents report satisfaction with their child's health plan, and 96 PERCENT received an appointment for checkups and vaccinations as soon as they wanted.

How does CHIP puts health insurance within reach?

CHIP is brought to you by leading health insurance companies. You'll have a choice of major insurance companies with networks of physicians, specialists, and care facilities near you.  Your kids may even be able to keep visiting the same doctors they see today. Find a CHIP health insurance company in your county.

What is the cost for CHIP coverage?

​For most families, it's free. Families with incomes above the free CHIP limits will pay low monthly premiums and co-pays for some services.

Is CHIP only for low income families?

​​Parents may think their kids can't get CHIP because they make too much money. Not true! CHIP covers uninsured kids and teens up to age 19 who are not eligible for Medical Assistance.

How long is the child covered?

​Once enrolled, children are guaranteed 12 months of chip program unless they no longer meet the basic eligibility requirements. Families must renew their coverage every year in order for the coverage to continue. CHIP insurance companies send renewal notices 90 days before their benefits are going to end, and families must fill out and send the renewal information back to their CHIP insurance company in order for benefits to continue.