More children eligible for health care coverage

The West Virginia Children's Health Insurance Program (WVCHIP) will soon expand health coverage for children by increasing the upper income limit for participation from 220% to 250% of the federal poverty level.

This greater news for working West Virginia families who are in need of health care coverage for their children, said Governor Joe Manchin. By expanding this program, more than 400 uninsured children may be eligible within the first complete year of the expansion, increasing to 717 over five years.

The new eligibility limits will allow a family of four to have income of up to $53,000.

Families with incomes up to 200% of the poverty level are not required to pay a premium and only have limited co-payments. Families with incomes exceeding 200% are required to pay premiums at a rate of $35 per month per single child or at a rate of $71 per month for two or more children, in addition to co-payments.

Questions concerning any additional eligibility details, such as benefits, co-payments, requests for applications, should be directed to the toll-free WVCHIP Helpline at 1-877-982-2447.