PHOENIX – This year, the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) implemented continuous coverage for children who are eligible for Medicaid in Arizona, including those enrolled in KidsCare (the Children’s Health Insurance Program [CHIP] in Arizona).
The new process of continuous coverage ensures 12 months of health care coverage even if they no longer qualify for Medicaid during the 12-month period before the child’s annual renewal date. Since the implementation of the program, AHCCCS has continued coverage for more than 155,000 children under the age of 19.
“Continuous coverage will ensure that eligible children receive the preventive and necessary care they need to stay healthy and relieve families of worry over changes in eligibility,” said AHCCCS Cabinet Executive Officer Carmen Heredia. “This policy helps advance Governor Hobbs’ goal of reducing those uninsured in Arizona and sets a foundation of wellness for the children we serve.”
In 2023, the Arizona Legislature passed, and Governor Hobbs signed, a bill to increase the income limit for KidsCare eligibility to 225% of the federal poverty level. It is estimated that an additional 10,000 will now qualify for coverage. In 2024, AHCCCS received federal approval to make this change permanent. With this approval, Arizona has become the first state in the nation to expand CHIP financial eligibility through its federal five-year 1115 Waiver approval process.
Families can see if they are eligible by applying online at Health-e-Arizona Plus or by calling 1-855-432-7587 for assistance.
