[July 2, 2009]

As a result of the reauthorization of the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) earlier this year, some UC employees and retirees may be able to enroll in UC-sponsored health insurance if they lose Medicaid/Medi-Cal or CHIP coverage.

CHIP is a joint federal and state program to provide health coverage for low-income children and pregnant women.

UC employees and retirees who are eligible for, but not enrolled in, UC-sponsored health insurance may enroll in UC coverage if they or their dependents lose coverage under Medicaid/Medi-Cal or CHIP because they are no longer eligible for those programs.  The employee or retiree has 60 days after the Medicaid or CHIP coverage ends to request enrollment in UC coverage.   For information about enrolling yourself or an eligible Family Member, see the person at your location who handles benefits. Retirees should contact the UC Customer Service Center (800-888-8267).

CHIP applies to those who have incomes less than 300 percent above the federal poverty level but too high to qualify for Medicaid (in California, Medi-Cal). In California, CHIP programs include the Healthy Families Program and Medi-Cal.

Some states outside of California offer a premium assistance program for individuals eligible for CHIP or Medicaid who are also eligible for employer-sponsored group health plans.  Employees and their dependents who reside outside of California and who become eligible for such assistance may be eligible for a special open enrollment period to enroll in UC-sponsored coverage under the same requirements noted above.  Proof of eligibility for the out of state CHIP or Medicaid program will be requested.

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