GUEST: Doug Olson, MD; Chief Medical Officer Medicaid/CHIP, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
Background:
Each year, tens of thousands of children are hospitalized due to the flu. In fact, during the 2019-2020 flu season, more than 52,000 child hospitalizations occurred. It’s important to remember even healthy kids of any age can get seriously sick from the flu, and they can spread it to family, friends and others. That’s why the seasonal influenza (flu) vaccine is particularly important this year. The best way to keep kids and teens healthy is by ensuring they receive the annual flu vaccine. With Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) children can received a free flu vaccine, as well as access to essential medical care that can help keep them healthy all year long.
Many parents may have held off on getting immunizations or postponed medical appointments for their children due to COVID-19. For uninsured kids in families with limited incomes, Medicaid and CHIP offer eligible children and teens up to age 19 access to routine and emergency care, eye exams, dental visits, mental health services, prescriptions, and other care. And this gives parents peace of mind.
Eligibility is dependent on household size and income and varies by state. On average, a family of four earning up to $50,000 a year or more may qualify for Medicaid or CHIP. On Wednesday, December 16th, Dr. Doug Olson will be available for interview to discuss the importance of the flu vaccine and how CMS is helping eligible children and teens obtain health coverage through Medicaid and CHIP.
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