Eligibility
See if your child qualifies for CHIP.
CHIP, brought to you by GHP Kids
GHP Kids gives kids and teens more – and it's available statewide.
Pennsylvania's Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), brought to you by Geisinger Health Plan Kids (GHP Kids), is available for all uninsured kids and teens up to age 19. This comprehensive coverage is offered at low or no cost, and no family makes too much money.
It's more than just health insurance. Kids also get full dental and vision coverage, prescriptions, vaccinations and access to free health and wellness programs.
09/29/2023|03:53
Learn more about CHIP
Learn what CHIP is, who it covers, if your child is eligible and more.
CHIP update
Learn about changes to the CHIP program due to guidance from the federal government.
Learn about GHP Kids
Coverage that gives your child access to the care they need to stay healthy.
Costs
Coverage is free or low cost depending on your household income.
What's covered
GHP Kids provides complete healthcare coverage for kids and teens.
Choosing Geisinger Health Plan
We offer the quality coverage and the exceptional value you want.
More than 500,000 members choose Geisinger Health Plan for its high-quality, affordable healthcare benefits. And we think they're onto something. With GHP Kids, you'll find:
Affordability and flexibility: This comprehensive CHIP plan provides medical, dental and vision services for low or no cost, based on your income. No family makes too much money. A large provider network lets you choose from thousands of providers.
Care where you live: With more than 28,000 primary care and specialty doctors, over 2,500 primary care locations and 185 clinic and urgent care locations, your child will never be far from the care they need.
Customer service built around you: Our team members are available by phone, online or in person to answer questions about specific plans and coverage.
Health and wellness programs: GHP Kids members get access to all the resources they need to stay healthy, like exclusive programs, online workshops, wellness challenges, mental health and substance abuse resources and health coaches.
Enhanced Member Supports Unit
We’re here to support you. Every GHP Family member can get help from the Enhanced Member Supports Unit (EMSU). Nurse case managers work with various healthcare providers and community resources to support your specific needs. Contact us if you need help managing your or your family member's complex health related matters. We can also help if you:
- Need help scheduling or getting to your medical appointments
- Take multiple prescription medications
- Have a child with special needs
Our staff can help you take the next step toward better health, like finding behavioral healthcare, scheduling healthcare appointments or connecting you with community agencies for added support. And they're just a call away, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., at 855-214-8100 (PA Relay 711).
Frequently asked questions
What is CHIP?
CHIP is short for the Children's Health Insurance Program — Pennsylvania's program to provide health insurance to all uninsured children and teens who are not eligible for or enrolled in Medicaid. There are a lot of reasons kids might not have health insurance. Maybe their parents lost a job. Maybe they don't have health insurance at work. Or maybe it just costs too much.
Whatever the reason, CHIP may be able to help. Families just need to apply. There is no waiting list to enroll.
Is CHIP only for low-income families?
For most families, CHIP is free. For others, it's low cost. The cost of coverage is determined by your family size and household income. Either way, CHIP benefits are the same for all. No family makes too much money for CHIP coverage!
How do I check my application status?
Find answers to your questions about eligibility and application processing by visiting dhs.pa.gov/COMPASS or using the myCOMPASS PA mobile app, or by calling the statewide customer service center at 877-395-8930 or 215-560-7226 in Philadelphia.
I recently gained legal custody of my grandchildren. They are uninsured and need health benefits. Can I apply for CHIP for them?
Yes! As the legal guardian who is exercising care and control of the children, you can apply for CHIP.