October 24, 2006

A meet to discuss the urgent need to ensure health coverage for all children in 2007 as SCHIP * the State Children’s Health Insurance Program * comes up for reauthorization and in light of the continuing health and mental health crisis faced by Katrina’s children.  

This meeting explores a proactive leadership strategy and vision for what all children need for a healthy start or a defensive hold the line strategy more likely to protect these crucial child health programs and help children left behind?  Should children’s advocates seize CHIP’s reauthorization as an opportunity to push for and achieve health care for all children rather than simple reauthorization which may result in moving backwards?

Health Insurance for Children
The Role of Medicaid and SCHIP as an Insurance Safety Net
Changes in Children’s Health Insurance Status, 1996–2005
SCHIP Enrollees With Special Health Care Needs And Access To Care
The Number of Uninsured Americans Is At An All-Time High