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		NEWS RELEASE
		Thursday, July 23, 2009 Contact: Bureau of Media & Communications; (225) 342-1532

As Louisiana parents prepare their children to return to the classroom this fall, the Department of Health and Hospitals wants to make sure this school year is a healthy one.  DHH’s regional representatives and local partners are conducting annual Back-to-School enrollment drives statewide to inform parents and caregivers about the availability of health coverage for uninsured children through the Louisiana Children’s Health Insurance Program (LaCHIP), the LaCHIP Affordable Plan and other Medicaid programs.

LaCHIP and the LaCHIP Affordable Plan are available for uninsured Louisiana children age 19 and under. Families with income at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty level – about $3,675 per month for a family of four – can secure health coverage for their children at no cost through LaCHIP.  With the LaCHIP Affordable Plan, families with income between 200 percent and 250 percent of the federal poverty level – up to $4,594 for a family of four – can purchase health coverage for a $50 monthly premium, plus co-payments.

Back-to-School outreach events will take place throughout the state, with LaCHIP representatives participating in events held at schools, stores, churches and community centers.  Visitors will be able to get information about various health coverage programs; apply for LaCHIP, LaCHIP Affordable Plan and Medicaid, and have their applications processed on the spot; renew coverage; update contact information; and get information on eligibility determinations when possible.

LaCHIP also will extend its state coverage by increasing hours for its toll-free hotline, 1-877-2LaCHIP (1-877-252-2447). Operators will be available from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 3 through Friday, Aug. 7.

In addition to the dates and locations listed here, visit www.lachip.org for a list of events taking place across the state as part of LaCHIP’s Back-to-School efforts.  At www.lachip.org complete an online application or download applications and renewal forms, or call the toll-free LaCHIP hotline at (877) 2LaCHIP (252-2447) to have an application sent to you by mail.

The Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals serves to protect and promote health statewide and to ensure access to medical, preventive and rehabilitative services for all state citizens. To learn more about DHH, visit www.dhh.louisiana.gov .

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