Frequently Asked Questions
What is PeachCare for Kids™?
PeachCare for Kids™ is a comprehensive health care program for uninsured children living in Georgia. The health benefits include:
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Each child in the program has a Georgia Better Health Care primary care provider, who coordinates the child's care.
Who is eligible for PeachCare for Kids™?
Many children in Georgia under the age of 19 who don't have insurance are eligible for PeachCare for Kids™. These children are in families with incomes less than or equal to 235 percent of the federal poverty limit -- about $47,000 for a family of four.
How much does it cost?
Premiums are required for children ages 6 and older. The cost per month for PeachCare for Kids™ coverage is $10 to $35 for one child and a maximum of $70 for two or more children living in the same household. Premiums are due the first day of the month prior to the month of coverage. For example, premiums for coverage in February are due on January 1.
What are the benefits?
The plan pays for preventive services and acute medical care, vision and dental care. Children enrolled in PeachCare for Kids™ use the agency's primary care case-management program, Georgia Better Health Care (GBHC).
Why was the one-month waiting period policy put in place?
The new one-month waiting period policy was developed as a part of the department's FY2006 budget submission. After consideration by the Governor and the Legislature, the final decision was given to the department to best determine how to meet the budget targets. Many other states have had lockout policies for late payments since the beginning of their programs. The policy is to address the growing administrative expense involved with reinstating children in the PeachCare for Kids™ program each month when their families fail to pay their premium on time. It is important for children to have ongoing access to healthcare and if the premium is paid on time, all enrolled children will continue to receive health coverage. Also, the state will be able to enroll more eligible children.
How many children are covered by PeachCare for Kids™?
As of April 2008, there were approximately 234,299 eligible children enrolled.
How did PeachCare for Kids™ start?
In 1997, Congress established a new state Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) to expand coverage to children in low income families. States could choose to expand the Medicaid program, use an established private health insurance plan or put together a combination of both.
In 1998, the Georgia General Assembly created a program that is separate from Medicaid yet still administered by the state Division of Medical Assistance, the Medicaid agency.
The Federal legislation that created the SCHIP program allotted almost $4.3 billion a year up to the year 2001. The Federal/State match is about 72 percent federal funds and 28 percent state funds - a larger federal share than "regular" Medicaid allows.
How do I apply?
You can download an application, or call 1-877-GAPEACH (1-877-427-3224) for more information.
Please go to www.PeachCare.org for more information on PeachCare for Kids™.