Private health plan coverage for children

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Where can families get answers to questions about health insurance?

How to manage your child’s health insurance

DON’T let your child’s health insurance expire.

If you are changing insurance plans, don’t let one policy lapse until the new one goes into effect.

Pay premiums in full and on time. New insurance can be hard to get and can cost a lot.

Read and review any booklets explaining the plan under which your child is covered. You may find more on the company’s or the insurance carrier’s Web site.

Know the details of your insurance plan and its coverage. Get a copy of your plan’s summary description (SPD), which tells you how the plan works, what benefits it provides, and how to get the benefits or file your claim. If you think you might need more insurance, ask your insurance carrier if it’s available.

Submit claims for all medical expenses even when you aren’t sure if they are covered.

Keep accurate and complete records of claims submitted, pending (waiting), and paid.

Keep copies of all paperwork related to your claims, such as letters of medical necessity, explanations of benefits (EOBs), bills, receipts, requests for sick leave or family medical (FMLA) leave, and any communication with insurance companies.

Get a caseworker, a hospital financial counselor, or a social worker to help you if your finances are limited. Often, companies or hospitals can work with you to make special payment arrangements if you let them know about your situation.

Send in your child’s bills for reimbursement as you get them. If you become overwhelmed with bills or tracking your medical expenses, get help. Contact local support organizations, such as your American Cancer Society (ACS) or your state’s government agencies, for extra help in finding resources.

Last Medical Review: 05/16/2013
Last Revised: 05/16/2013