Federal health insurance assistance provides individuals the opportunity to receive proper health care they may not have access to for reasons such as economic status, disability, or age. Health care offered through federal initiatives includes programs for men, women and children. The standard for federal health insurance has a long history dating to the 1700s when a system was established to care for merchant seamen. Since then, federal funding has supported many efforts to protect the health and well-being of American citizens.
History
Before the official existence of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) in 1980, the federal government has taken action to combat disease and improve health. From opening a lab in 1887 for disease research to the first report on smoking and health from the Surgeon General in 1964, federal health insurance has become important to economic structure creating, among various health programs, Medicare and Medicaid in 1965 and the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) in 1997.
Medicare
Medicare provides hospital insurance, medical insurance and prescription drug coverage if you are age 65 and older, under 65 with specific disabilities and or any age with permanent kidney failure, dialysis or in need of a kidney transplant. Benefits are paid directly to the health provider through the plan.
Medicaid
Medicaid provides comprehensive health care, including dental, to individuals who cannot afford medical care because of low income. If you meet the criteria due to pregnancy, disability, age or blindness, coverage may be granted retroactively, preceding the application up to three months.
Children's Health Insurance Program
The Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) provides health care to pregnant women and children in families that do not qualify for Medicaid due to income that is too high, but too low for private insurance. Under federal direction, every state decides its CHIP program structure, eligibility, benefits and coverage payments. The program covers immunizations, standard exams, dental care, hospital care, X-rays and lab services.
Moving Forward
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has formed many programs, organizations and partnerships to fight health inequality. Persistent advances in medical care and technology help strengthen initiatives in continuing efforts to offer quality medical care to millions of people through federal health insurance.
Tags: Children Health, Children Health Insurance, health insurance, Health Insurance Program, Insurance Program, medical care, Department Health
