HHS Approves Idaho CHIP Program Expansion

HHS Secretary Tommy Thompson has approved an expansion of Idaho's CHIP Program, allowing the state to increase enrollment by 4,000 children. Idaho's CHIP, which is a Medicaid expansion, currently serves 8,394 enrolled children and requires no premiums, copayments or "other out-of-pocket expenses" (HHS release, 3/5). According to the HCFA Press Office, the approval allows for a simplified application, improved media and outreach efforts and greater coordination among state agencies (HCFA Press Office, 3/7). "Idaho's expansion demonstrates how popular [CHIP] is with states and how vital it has proven to be for the families enrolled," Thompson said (HCFA release, 3/5).