There is good news, if you are a local member of Healthy Kids, a state resource for providing affordable health care for children.
The Florida Healthy Kids Corporation has approved Hurricane Ian premium relief for Florida KidCare member families in 26 counties in the direct path of Hurricane Ian, including Osceola.
To help families following this storm, the corporation has agreed to cover 100% of eligible family monthly premium payments for October. Monthly premium payment relief will also be made available for November and December coverage to those who contact them with a need. Members enrolled in both subsidized and full-pay plans are included.
“We don’t want children losing critical health coverage while their families are putting back the pieces after a devastating storm like Hurricane Ian. The Corporation’s leadership team has worked alongside me for weeks, gathering information and running the numbers to find the right balance of relief,” said Healthy Kids Board of Directors chair Dr. Stephanie Haridopolos.
The action offers immediate relief to all, regardless of their family situation, while extending additional financial savings to families needing an extra helping hand. I am proud of our collective effort to reach this place.”
Altogether, more than 65,000 children live in the 26 identified counties, representing more than 50% of the total Florida KidCare population.
On top of premium relief, the Corporation is assisting impacted families with expedited enrollment for approved applicants, giving members 30 extra days to complete annual renewals, giving members the full month to pay premiums typically due by the first of the month, and granting more time for appeals.
For more information, go to https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4673/designated-areas, or to HealthyKids.org to learn about the service.
