Oral Health Coverage and Care For Low-Income Children: The Role of Medicaid and CHIP

Publication Date: April 2009

Publisher: Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation

Author(s): Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation

Research Area: Health

Keywords: CHIP; Medicaid; dental

Type: Brief

Coverage: United States

Abstract:

This updated policy brief provides an overview of oral health care access and coverage for low-income children. Problems obtaining oral health and dental care disproportionately affect low-income and minority children. Medicaid, and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), are major sources of oral health and dental coverage for millions of low-income children. In fact, the Children's Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2009 (CHIPRA) guarantees dental benefits under CHIP beginning Oct. 1, 2009. But barriers that leave many children without adequate oral health and dental care remain.