Pennsylvania has strengthened its Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) by adding a new insurer, WellKids by PA Health & Wellness. This expansion aims to provide families with more affordable coverage options for their children, especially as many still face challenges in securing health insurance. The announcement was made by the Department of Human Services (DHS), marking a significant update since the last CHIP re-procurement in 2013.
Dr. Val Arkoosh, Secretary of the DHS, emphasized the importance of health care access for children, stating, “Pennsylvania’s kids deserve the best start in life we can give them, and that begins with making sure they can get health care when they need it.” CHIP serves children and teenagers up to age 19 who do not qualify for Medicaid, offering free or low-cost coverage based on family income. Notably, no family earns too much to qualify for the program, ensuring that parents can choose the plan that best meets their needs.
The program covers essential health services, including routine checkups, immunizations, emergency care, mental health services, as well as dental, vision, and hearing care. WellKids by PA Health & Wellness is part of Centene Corporation and brings extensive experience from managing Medicaid plans, including Pennsylvania’s Community HealthChoices program. This new CHIP plan will be available to families in all 67 counties across the Commonwealth.
Increased Options and Quality Assurance
State officials highlighted that WellKids’ accreditation from the National Committee for Quality Assurance, which includes a Health Equity designation, played a crucial role in its selection. This accreditation indicates a commitment to providing quality care and ensuring fair access for all families. Starting in January 2026, CHIP will be offered through a network of nine managed care organizations, which includes Aetna, Capital Blue Cross, Geisinger Health Plan, Health Partners Plan, Highmark, Keystone First, UnitedHealthcare, UPMC, and PA Health & Wellness.
The introduction of WellKids is expected to foster competition among insurers, offering families greater flexibility in selecting plans that align with their doctors, pharmacies, and specific healthcare needs. For those seeking more information about WellKids, they can call 1-855-445-1920 or visit their website.
As thousands of children in Pennsylvania rely on CHIP for essential services such as doctor visits, prescriptions, and preventive care, this expansion enhances a program that is vital for child health across the state. The addition of WellKids by PA Health & Wellness signifies a positive step forward in ensuring that all children have access to necessary healthcare resources.
