Conviction and Compassion Creates the Federal Children's Health Insurance Program

Introduction: For a quarter century, the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) has provided essential health care coverage for children and pregnant women in working families. Established as part of the Balanced Budget Act of 1997, CHIP provides critical coverage for children living in families with incomes falling between eligibility for Medicaid and employment-based coverage. Since its enactment, CHIP has markedly reduced the number of children who were uninsured in 2020 to approximately 3.7 million children (5.0%), an extraordinary 67% reduction. This article traces the history of the federal CHIP legislation based in large part upon the success of Pennsylvania's innovative efforts.

Methods: Review of the literature. Personal Communications.

Results: Since its enactment, CHIP has markedly reduced the number of children who were uninsured in 2020 to approximately 3.7 million children (5.0%), an extraordinary 67% reduction.

Discussion: This article traces the history of the federal CHIP legislation based in large part upon the success of Pennsylvania's innovative efforts. The authors certify that the material presented in this article was prepared in accord with prevailing ethical principles.