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Children's Health Insurance

Without health insurance, doctor visits and emergency care costs can escalate quickly. Health insurance is a necessary support tool to avoid serious financial strain. Aflac doesn't offer primary health insurance, but we do offer supplemental plans that work with your existing plan to help offset out-of-pocket expenses. Read on to learn what health insurance for children covers, how much it costs, and why getting a plan for your kids is worth it.

What does health insurance for kids cover?

Health insurance for kids can have similar coverage to an adult plan. Examples of some covered events include:

  • Preventative care
  • Immunizations and vaccines
  • Doctor visits
  • Treatments and procedures
  • Emergency services
  • Prescription medication
  • Dental and vision checkups3

How long can children stay on their parent's health insurance?

In most cases, children can stay on their parent's health insurance plan until they turn 26 years old.1 However, this depends on the regulations within the parent or guardian's plan, their state of residence, and unique circumstances. You can get health insurance for yourself and your kids through the insurance marketplace, government programs, or your employer if they offer it.2 Compare health insurance coverage options to determine what plan is best for you and your loved ones.

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How much does health insurance for children cost?

The cost of health insurance for children depends on age, location, and whether they can be included in their parent's plan. At some insurance companies, you can pay more per month for premiums to expand family support.

For example, if the child is under the age of 14, you usually only have to pay a flat rate to add them to an existing adult health insurance plan. From ages 14 to 26, the premium may steadily rise each year for the child's coverage.4 The specific price of medical insurance for kids depends on the existing plan's coverage and baseline cost. We recommend looking at the specifics within each health insurance plan to see what the cost of add-on benefits looks like.

Low-cost health insurance for kids

If you can't afford health insurance for a child, you may be eligible for The Children's Health Insurance Program. This program offers free or low-cost insurance for children in your life, depending on the state you live in and your financial abilities.5 This plan offers health insurance for kids only. The age restrictions vary from state to state, but generally, anyone under 19 years old is considered young enough for this child-only health insurance program.6

Low-cost health insurance for adults

Medicaid and Medicare are the government-run health insurance programs offered to adults.7 Medicare is offered to Americans 65 years of age and older that also have a disability. Medicaid is specifically offered to low-income individuals of any age.8 We recommend checking out HealthCare.gov for more information on how to get government assistance for adult and child healthcare.

How to find the right health insurance for children

When selecting the right health insurance plan for children, prioritize comprehensive coverage that includes pediatric care, regular check-ups, vaccinations, and access to in-network pediatricians and specialists. Ensure the plan covers emergency services, prescription medications, and offers options for vision and dental care if needed.

It's also important to consider mental health services and any special needs coverage your child may require. Evaluate out-of-pocket costs, including premiums, co-pays, and deductibles, to find a plan that fits your budget while providing the necessary care.

Is health insurance for children worth it?

It's crucial to get proper health insurance for children. Having access to regular check-ups and treatments when ill or injured is essential to a child's well-being. Health insurance can ensure that your child can get the preventive care and procedures they need without breaking the bank.

Get supplemental insurance for you and your kids from Aflac

Having health insurance for children can help your kids get the medical care they need. Additionally, supplemental insurance can help bridge coverage gaps in a medical plan. Aflac offers several supplemental insurance policies, like cancer, critical illness, hospital, short-term disability, vision, and accident. Some of these insurance plans offer the ability to extend support to family members. Chat with an agent to explore how to get more support for you and your loved ones.

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