Number of Uninsured Kids in Missouri Rises

A new report from the Georgetown University Center for Children and Families shows that 83,000 Missouri children were uninsured in 2018, 12,000 more than in 2016, an increase of 17%. According to the report, at least some, if not most, of these children would qualify for coverage through Medicaid and CHIP (the Children's Health Insurance Program), but their parents either don't have affordable coverage options through their employers, don't qualify for Medicaid coverage themselves, or face hurdles enrolling their eligible children. "It is well established," the study reports, "that when states offer coverage for the whole family, children are more likely to be enrolled." Missouri is among a dwindling number of states that have not expanded their Medicaid program. Continuous health coverage is critical for kids, families, and communities. Kids who have health coverage do better in school and have better health, educational and economic outcomes as adults.