Access to Care
Affordable private health insurance that covers all parts of arthritiscare may sometimes be hard to get. You should know about available financial assistance and health insurance programs. Some public programs athat can help are listed below. Your medical social worker can assist in determining which program might be right for you.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
This is a monthly payment from the federal Socia Security Administration (SSA) to people of any age that are disabled, blind, or 65 or older if they have limited income and resources. In most states, children who receive SSI automatically qualify for Medicaid. Contact your local security administration for more details.
Medicaid
Even if your income is too high for SSI, you may still qualify for Medicaid. In certain states, families with large medical bills may be classified as medically needy if medical expenses substantially reduce their income. Some states also separate the child's assets from those of the parents, enabling a child to qualify for Medicaid. Contact your local Health and Human Services Department for more information
State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP)
The Balanced Budget Act of 1997 created a new child's health insurance program called the State Children's Health Insurance Program. This program gives each state permission to offer health insurance for children up to age 19, who are not already insured. SCHIP is a state-adminstered program and each state sets its own guidelines regarding elibility and services. Families who earn too much to qualify for Medicaid may quailfy for SCHIP. To get information regarding SCHIP in your state, contact your local Health and Human Services department.
State High-Risk Insurance Pools
Some states have created programs to provde health insurance to people who cannot get helath insurance anywhere else. Coverage may be expensive and may not cover pre-existing conditions like arthritis.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
A disabled child under age 22 can receive SSDI benefits based on a parent's work history and Social Security record if the parent is retired, disabled or deceased. A child who has received SSDI benefits for 24 months becomes eligible for Medicare. Contact your local social security administration for more details.
State Programs
Under the Federal Title V Program, states receive funds to provide rehabilitation and other services for disabled children under age 16 who qualify. States may also have other funds to cover care and services for families and children. Contact your local Health and Human Services Department for more information.
