State eases CHIP requirements during COVID-19

Apr. 15--Pennsylvania's Department of Human Services on Wednesday announced temporary changes to its Children's Health Insurance Program to protect families enrolled in the program during the COVID-19 crisis.

Families will not be denied or removed from coverage for administrative or financial reasons, such as not being able to provide proof of income, during the public health emergency, nor will they provide a copay for COVID-19 screening, testing or treatment.

As thousands combat financial turmoil amid business closures, stay-at-home orders and health scares, DHS Secretary Teresa Miller said the changes are designed to ease access to CHIP and keep families enrolled when they need it most.

"COVID-19 has created economic challenges for families across Pennsylvania, and we want to be sure that families are able to keep health-care coverage to protect themselves and their children during this time," she said.

Those who cannot provide paperwork to verify information on an application or renewal can now provide self-attestation by signing the document, and many will be given more time to pay premiums.

Families still must provide verification of information presented on an application, and are still responsible for copays for services not related to COVID-19. Testing and treatment services related to COVID-19 are covered.

If a family is unable to pay premiums because of a decrease or loss of income, they must contact their managed care organization immediately to request an income reassessment.

The Wolf administration previously announced the continued availability of CHIP and Medicaid to those who meet eligibility requirements, as well as temporary flexibility of requirements for providers of Medicaid and CHIP to ensure availability and access to health care.

For information on how to apply for CHIP, visit the state's website.

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