West Virginia Kids Need Better Health Coverage
A recent report indicated that children in West Virginia rank 2nd in the nation in chronic health problems (such ex. asthma, diabetes etc.), the only state whose children had a higher rate of chronic health issues than West Virginia’s 18%, was Kentucky (18.5%).
More than 50% of West Virginia’s chronically ill children do have health insurance coverage via Medicaid or CHIP, however, in most states the majority of chronically ill children are covered by a private health insurance plan.
While government sponsored health plans such as Medicaid and CHIP are better than going without coverage altogether, in many cases children still don’t receive the health care that is needed, or quickly enough.
In an effort to increase the level of care received by those in Medicaid, a “incentive” program has been put in place that asks families to sign personal responsibility agreements that asks for commitments to keep doctors appointments, and otherwise lead healthy lifestyles etc. If the families meet certain criteria they can receive expanded health coverage. So far only 8% of families have signed the agreements.
More information about West Virginia Health Insurance.
