Key Takeaways

• About 3 in 4 children rely on Medicaid coverage or CHIP by age 18.
• Nearly 2 in 5 kids experience a period without any health insurance.
• Non-expansion states see higher rates of coverage loss.
• Federal Medicaid cuts could widen existing gaps in care.

Kids Rely on Medicaid Coverage

Most children in the United States will use Medicaid coverage at some point before they turn 18. In fact, by their 18th birthday, about 61 percent have been on Medicaid or CHIP. Meanwhile, about 42 percent lose all health insurance at least once during childhood.

Researchers at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health studied national data from 2015 to 2019. They found that many families face periods without any coverage. Moreover, about 78.5 percent of kids had employer-based insurance at some point. Thus, most children see multiple types of health plans.

However, losing coverage can leave families scrambling. Uninsured kids may miss check-ups or delay needed care. Over time, those gaps can harm a child’s health and development.

States with Medicaid Coverage Gaps

Coverage loss varies by state policy. States that did not expand income eligibility under the Affordable Care Act saw larger gaps. In non-expansion states, roughly 59 percent of children lost coverage at least once. By contrast, only 36 percent did so in expansion states.

Strict income rules also play a role. When states set tight limits for Medicaid or CHIP, more kids cycle in and out of coverage. For instance, a family earning slightly above the threshold may see its child covered only part of the year.

In addition, noncitizen children face special risks. They often cannot enroll in public insurance. As a result, they may go without coverage even when they qualify for other programs.

How Cuts Could Widen Medicaid Coverage Gaps

Next year, federal funding for Medicaid will shrink under a new tax and spending plan. Analysts predict a cut of about $1 trillion over ten years. Enrollment could drop by 10 to 15 million people as a result.

These cuts threaten to deepen existing Medicaid coverage gaps. First, some states may tighten eligibility rules or add work requirements. Second, families could face more frequent checks to stay enrolled. Third, noncitizen children might face new barriers to public insurance.

As senior author Nicolas Menzies notes, these changes could worsen already large gaps. In turn, more children may go without care during key years of growth.

Why Coverage Gaps Matter

When children lack Medicaid coverage, they risk missing vaccines and basic care. They are more likely to end up in emergency rooms for issues that regular check-ups could prevent. Moreover, families forced to pay out of pocket may skip appointments to save money.

Research links continuous coverage to better long-term health. Children with stable insurance have higher vaccination rates. They also show improved mental health outcomes and fewer hospital visits. Therefore, connecting kids to Medicaid coverage early and keeping them enrolled matters a great deal.

What Families Can Do

Stay informed about renewal dates and income limits. Mark calendar reminders for paperwork deadlines. Seek help from local health centers or community groups if coverage ends. Many nonprofit clinics offer free or sliding-scale services.

Also, explore marketplace plans if your child loses Medicaid coverage. Some families may qualify for subsidies that lower monthly premiums. Furthermore, check if your state has special programs for children in low-income families.

Advocates urge families to speak up. Contact state representatives to support policies that expand Medicaid coverage. Join local health coalitions to share stories of coverage loss. Together, families can push for rules that keep kids covered.

Looking Ahead

As the country considers major policy changes, the fate of Medicaid coverage hangs in the balance. Lawmakers can choose to shield children from disruptions or let cuts deepen the gaps. In the coming months, public comments and state decisions will shape the path forward.

By raising awareness now, families and advocates can help protect continuous coverage for millions of children. After all, every child deserves the chance to grow up healthy and strong.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do children lose Medicaid coverage?

Children can lose coverage when their family income rises above state limits or when they miss renewal deadlines. Some states also change rules on citizenship or residency, causing gaps.

How do coverage gaps affect child health?

Gaps can lead to missed vaccines and delayed check-ups. This raises the risk of emergency room visits and untreated health issues.

Can families get help during a coverage gap?

Yes. Community health centers often provide free or low-cost care. Families can also explore marketplace plans with subsidies.

What can states do to reduce coverage loss?

States can expand Medicaid eligibility and simplify renewal processes. They can also limit paperwork and protect noncitizen children from exclusion.