Healthy Families Program for Californians:

If you are a resident of California, your children up to age 19 may be eligible for the Healthy Families Program. This is a program that is designed to provide health insurance coverage for children that includes health, dental and vision benefits. With the rates of the uninsured rising, particularly children, this program is a great way to ensure that your children will get the health care they need, regardless of your income status.

In addition to coverage for children, Healthy Families also provides low cost health insurance options for the entire family, if they meet eligibility requirements. The general requirements are as follows:

1. The children in the family do not currently qualify for Medi-Cal, which is a free health insurance program for children.

2. The income of the entire family falls below the Federal Income guidelines. These guidelines will vary on the ages of the children and the size of the family. For more information, you can contact Healthy Families for more information.

3. The family does not currently have health insurance from an employer and has been uncovered for at least three months.

4. The children of the family must meet certain citizenship and/or immigration rules. These rules state that you must be a citizen of the United States or a US non-citizen national or a qualified immigrant.

Although the Health Families Program does not provide free health insurance coverage, the premiums are greatly reduced, making it easier for most families to afford these costs.

Once you have determined that you are eligible for the program, you can begin the application process. This is done by filling out an application, or applying by phone. Parents can apply for their children, or minors may apply on their own as long as they meet eligibility requirements.

After you have been approved, your health coverage should meet your general needs, and can be tailored specifically. General health, dental and vision care are covered, as well as some other areas, such as mental health care and pregnancy care. A pregnant woman who meets the requirements can apply for coverage three months before the birth is scheduled. This coverage will provide prenatal care for those under the age of eighteen.

Families with additional insurance needs may qualify for California's Children's Services in addition to the Healthy Families Program. This additional coverage provides care for children that suffer from medically handicapped conditions. If you would like more information about this program, you can ask your family doctor if they believe your child would be eligible.

For more information about the Healthy Families Program for Californians and additional information on the types of benefits and income requirements, please visit www.healthyfamilies.ca.gov

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