ANALYSIS OF HOUSE BILL 1496

           Distributing health care coverage enrollment information.

Health Care Committee                         February 15, 1999

Washington State House of Representatives

SPONSORS:  Representatives Murray and Alexander.

BACKGROUND:  Since 1993, Washington has provided comprehensive health insurance coverage through Medicaid and Basic Health Plus to children with family incomes up to 200 percent of Federal Poverty Level.  Despite the availability of this coverage, it is estimated that over 60,000 children in this state are eligible but not enrolled.

The proponents of the measure believe that access to appropriate health care is essential for a child's development.  Also, that a coordinated approach is necessary to maximize enrollment.

SUMMARY:  By September 1, 1999, the Secretary of Social and Health Services, the State Health Care Authority Administrator, and the Superintendent of Public Instruction must implement an outreach program to inform children and their parents of the availability of the Medical Assistance Program and the Basic Health Plan.

Outreach information must:

Include eligibility standards; program benefits; and the importance and advantages of a child's enrollment; and

Be available in all necessary languages.

The agencies must:

Prior to implementation, review research on successful outreach programs;

Seek the private and public funding for the outreach program; and

Submit to the Legislature an outline of the program's design by August 1, 1999, and a brief status report of the program's implementation by August 1, 2000.