Manchin asking West Virginia families to share how CHIP has helped them

Dec. 07--U.S. Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., is asking West Virginia families to share stories on how the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) has made an impact in their lives and the lives of their children.

CHIP provides health insurance to almost nine million children in America, and ensures that more than 21,000 children in West Virginia have access to needed healthcare services.

"As any West Virginian, I believe that we must take care of our children first and foremost," Manchin said. "No matter where a child lives or how much their family makes, we owe it to them to make sure they receive the best health care available."

He called Congress' failure to reauthorize CHIP "disgraceful." The program expired Sept. 30 this year, and unless the program is reauthorized, West Virginia is expected to freeze enrollment in the program Feb. 28, 2018.

CHIP in West Virginia is currently 100 percent funded by the federal government. Without CHIP, Manchin said tens of thousands of West Virginian children are at risk of losing health insurance coverage.

Services covered by CHIP in West Virginia include: doctor visits; check-ups; hospital visits; immunizations; prescriptions; tests and X-rays; dental care; vision care; emergency care; mental health; diabetic supplies; urgent care or after hour clinic visits; and case management for special needs.

"That is why I want to hear from my fellow West Virginians about what CHIP has done for you. I know your stories will inspire my colleagues to reauthorize the CHIP program so millions of kids aren't in limbo and parents can rest easy knowing that their child has health care."

Anyone who wishes to share their CHIP story can email it to chip@manchin.senate.gov. Manchin plans to read the stories on the Senate Floor. He also encourages folks to include a photo of their family.

-- Email: wholdren@register-herald.com and follow on Twitter @WendyHoldren

-- Email: wholdren@register-herald.com; follow on Twitter @WendyHoldren

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