By WENDY HOLDREN
The Register-Herald
BECKLEY, W.Va. — U.S. Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., is asking West Virginia families to share stories on how the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) has made an impact in their lives and the lives of their children.
CHIP provides health insurance to almost nine million children in America, and ensures that more than 21,000 children in West Virginia have access to needed healthcare services.
“As any West Virginian, I believe that we must take care of our children first and foremost,” Manchin said. “No matter where a child lives or how much their family makes, we owe it to them to make sure they receive the best health care available.”
CHIP in West Virginia is currently 100 percent funded by the federal government. Without CHIP, Manchin said tens of thousands of West Virginian children are at risk of losing health insurance coverage.
Services covered by CHIP in West Virginia include: doctor visits; check-ups; hospital visits; immunizations; prescriptions; tests and X-rays; dental care; vision care; emergency care; mental health; diabetic supplies; urgent care or after hour clinic visits; and case management for special needs.
Anyone who wishes to share their CHIP story can email it to [email protected]. Manchin plans to read the stories on the Senate Floor. He also encourages folks to include a photo of their family.
Email: [email protected] and follow on Twitter @WendyHoldren