The program assures that all Ventura County children under the age of 19 are able to obtain services either through Medi-Cal, Healthy Families or other health care programs that target comprehensive medical, dental and vision services.The goal of “Health Care for Kids” is to provide health care access to as many children as possible by increasing enrollment in existing state insurance programs such as the no-cost Medi-Cal and low-cost Healthy Families, available to uninsured children that qualify.Other options include enrolling children who fail to qualify for public programs in low-cost private insurance programs, such as the plan offered by Kaiser Permanente.“Health Care for Kids” simplifies the often confusing and lengthy process by having all information on each health care provider’s programs and the necessary paperwork to start determining eligibility available at a single location.Implementing “Health Care for Kids,” a facet of First 5 County of Ventura, was a priority of Supervisor Kathy Long, who said that increasing access to health care as well as “simplifying the process for receiving same creates healthier children with a stronger future.”Those interested in “Health Care for Kids” can visit the Santa Clara Valley Center, 725 E. Main St., obtain applications by calling the toll free number: 1-866-481-7674 or the 211 County Help Line. Applications for Medi-Cal and Healthy Families can also be downloaded online at www.healthyfamilies.ca.gov.
‘Health Care for Kids': New program streamlines health provider process
February 03, 2006
Santa Paula News
The November launch of a new program providing “Health Care for Kids” that offers access to low-cost or no-cost health care has provided health insurance to more than 60 area children, according to Gloria Lopez of Ventura County Public Health.
By Peggy KellySanta Paula TimesThe November launch of a new program providing “Health Care for Kids” that offers access to low-cost or no-cost health care has provided health insurance to more than 60 area children, according to Gloria Lopez of Ventura County Public Health.The Board of Supervisors approved the pilot program that offers a one-stop-shopping model for child health care providers to serve the approximately 32,000 uninsured children in Ventura County.The Children’s Health Initiative has targeted those uninsured children, including the approximately 27,000 that already qualify for state and federal supported programs.Shortly after the program was offered, the Ventura County Health Care Agency and Human Services Agency-sponsored program started to process 281 family referrals.And, as of Jan. 12, “Sixty-two children have been enrolled and now have healthcare coverage,” noted Lopez.There are 303 cases pending, she added, and a second Health Care for Kids office is scheduled to open in Ventura in March.