Summer’s Here – Are Your Kids Covered?
Health Concerns Should Take Top Priority During Active Summer Season; CHIP can help
Ah, summertime – picnics, playgrounds, swimming and sun. What could be better? As you pack that pool bag, picnic basket or suitcase, remember to add one important essential to your summertime list of must-haves – health insurance for your kids.
Pennsylvania’s Children’s Health Insurance Program now covers uninsured kids and teens (up to age 19). Coverage includes doctor visits, dental care, eye care, prescriptions, immunizations, mental health and much more, which can offer peace of mind to parents, especially during this active time of year.
There are more than 133,000 uninsured children in Pennsylvania who have access to this comprehensive health insurance coverage. All families need to do is apply! CHIP puts health coverage within reach for uninsured kids and teens who are not enrolled in Medical Assistance. For most families, CHIP is free. Others pay a low cost.
Families who need health insurance are encouraged to apply right away. CHIP enrollment information is available by visiting CHIPcoversPAkids.com or calling 800-986-KIDS. If you need assistance, Keystone Health has staff available to walk you through the process. Our Outreach Enrollment Navigators are available at Keystone Health’s 820 Fifth Avenue and 830 Fifth Avenue offices. We also have offices in downtown Chambersburg, Downtown Greencastle, and Downtown Waynesboro. Our navigators are available by phone or can even meet you in person at the location of your choice such as a church or library.
Although having access to proper medical treatment is invaluable, there are some simple summer safety tips that will keep you and your family happy and healthy this season – and beyond.
1. Wear a helmet and other safety gear when biking, skating and skateboarding. Studies on bicycle helmets have shown they can reduce the risk of head injury by as much as 85 percent.
2. Bring a first aid kit when you go camping with your family. The kit should include antibiotic ointment, antihistamine syrup, calamine lotion, fever/pain medicine, insect repellent, bandages, and of course, sunscreen.
3. When exposed to the sun and heat, be sure to wear sunscreen (use a sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of 15 or greater. Be sure to apply enough sunscreen and keep all family members hydrated.
4. When barbecuing, make sure that your young child is far enough away from the broiler in order to prevent a burn injury.
5. Use layers of protection to prevent a swimming pool tragedy. This includes placing barriers completely around your pool to prevent access, using door and pool alarms, closely supervising your child, and being prepared in case of an emergency.
6. Summer also means yard work. When mowing, keep small children out of the yard, and turn the mower off if children enter the area. Never carry children on a riding mower.