MEMORANDUM

DISCUSSION:

Health insurance provided through Missouri Consolidated Health Care Plan (MCHCP) for State employees, is considered affordable. Children of State employees who are eligible to purchase state health insurance on their behalf are not eligible for MO HealthNet for Kids, Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) premium level of care.

Employer-sponsored health insurance causes ineligibility for CHIP coverage if:

• the premium meets the affordable definition,
• the coverage meets the definition of health insurance, and
• it covers all of a child's pre-existing conditions.

Health insurance purchased through MCHCP meets all of the above criteria. MCHCP insurance meets the definition of affordable, coverage provided meets the definition of health insurance and pre-existing condition limitations do not apply for Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) or co-pay plans available through MCHCP. 

NECESSARY ACTION:

• Review this memorandum with appropriate staff.

LH