North Dakota offers a range of health-care options for children in need. Governed by state and federal authorities, the programs offer medical aid to families with limited incomes and resources. Additionally, programs are available for children with pre-existing health conditions and those denied coverage by traditional health insurance companies.
Low-Income Health Care
North Dakota Medicaid is a federal and state-funded health care option for qualifying low-income individuals and families. Coverage includes basic and specialty care, prescription drugs, dental, vision, home health care, hospitalization and many other services. Income, assets and medical need determine eligibility. As of July 1, 2009, a family of four requesting Medicaid for their children may qualify if their income is at or below $1,838 per month. Learn more about Medicaid at your County Social Services Office or by calling the North Dakota Department of Human Services at 1-800-755-2604.
Alternative Aid
Uninsured children ineligible for Medicaid due to income limits may qualify for the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Like Medicaid, CHIP is a state and federal program aimed at providing health coverage to those unable to afford private health insurance. CHIP covers children up to age 18 if their family income does not exceed 160 percent of the Federal Poverty Level. As of July 1, 2009, a qualifying family of four may be eligible for CHIP if their annual net income is at or below $35,280.
Specialty Care Assistance
The North Dakota Department of Health's Specialty Care Program provides financial aid for treatment and diagnosis of children with special health-care needs. Help is available for children up to age 21 with a gross family income at or below 185 percent of the Federal Poverty Level. The program covers specialized care relating to particular medical conditions, but not well-child care. Qualifying conditions include but are not limited to asthma, diabetes, cystic fibrosis, cancer and heart conditions. Apply for the Specialty Health Care Program at a county Social Services Office.
Emergency Care Options
Hill-Burton Health Care is a nationwide cooperative treatment option for low-income children and individuals. Hill-Burton facilities are hospitals and other health care agencies required to provide medical aid regardless of a person's inability to pay. You will need to show proof of income when requesting health care. Call the Hill-Burton Hotline at 1-800-638-0742, to find a facility near you.
Pre-Existing Condition Insurance
On July 1, 2010, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services began the nationwide Pre-Existing Insurance Plan PCIP. The program offers health coverage to uninsured individuals denied health coverage due to pre-existing conditions. The plan includes primary and specialty health services, hospitalization, prescription and other benefits. PCIP costs $246 a month for individuals age 34 and under. Partial prescription fees, $25 co-pays and 20-percent payment of other covered benefits also apply. A $2,500 deductible applies before paying coverage begins for services other than preventive health care.
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