Pediatricians can play an important and unique role in this effort. In your own practice you can learn about the application process and the resources in your community to help families enroll and then share this information with your patients. As a member of your AAP chapter, you can work to change policies to make it easier for families to enroll. You can also educate your fellow pediatricians and encourage them to participate in the program. Several of the resources listed at the end of this issue brief have state and local contact information.
Some states have applications and brochures that can be down loaded from the Web.
Mention the program to all your uninsured and Medicaid patients. Explain that they or someone they know may be eligible for free or low cost health insurance. Find out how and where families apply. Train your office staff to help families complete the applications. Give patients a list of things they need to bring with them to enroll as quickly and as easily as possible.