Cecil J. Picard, State Superintendent of Education , said studies show that youth with health insurance coverage perform better academically and have fewer days of absence from school. To improve the lives of Louisiana's children, we must answer all of their basic needs. Chief among them is good health. The LaCHIP program is making it possible for thousands of children to arrive at school in good health and ready to learn. This year's campaign includes a flyer specifically targeted towards encouraging families with teens to apply.
Teenagers are more likely to be uninsured than younger age children.
While LaCHIP is known to cover common medical services, many teens and their parents may not know it also covers orthodontic work, acne medication and treatment for sports injuries. Families who enrolled their children in LaCHIP last year must re-enroll to continue coverage. This form can also be requested using the toll-free hotline. Eligibility guidelines are listed below. DHH officials encourage families who are close to exceeding the income guidelines to apply for LaCHIP anyway.