MediKids Florida: Affordable Health Insurance for Children

As of 2006, 8.7 million children in the United States lacked health insurance, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. If you are a Florida resident, your child may qualify for MediKids, a public insurance program.

About MediKids

• MediKids is a low-cost insurance program administered by the Agency for Health Care Administration and is part of the Florida KidCare program. Coverage is available to children between the ages 1 and 4 who meet eligibility requirements. Subsidized monthly premiums are based on income; in 2010, the amount is $15 or $20 per household. Families that make too much for premium assistance pay the full premium, $159 in 2010.

Eligibility Requirements

• To be eligible for the program, your child must not have any other insurance coverage. She must also not be eligible for Medicaid or the dependent of a state employee who is eligible for health insurance benefits.

Benefits Available

• Children enrolled in MediKids receive a wide range of benefits, including most Medicaid-covered benefits. Doctor visits, immunizations, lab work and X-rays, surgery and hospitalization care are among the benefits. Vision care, dental services and prescription drugs are also covered.

Enrollment Process

• An application must be completed to enroll your child in MediKids. You can mail, fax, or scan and email the application. If approved, you will be able to select a health plan for your child from among participating plans in your county.