Phillips proclaims “Week of the Uninsured” to raise awareness of 65,000 uninsured kids in Washington

March 24, 2009

Summary

Week of March 23 -27 acknowledges need for medical care for all vulnerable populations, especially children and youth

Story

The Metropolitan King County Council advocated for the need for all uninsured children in Washington to have access to the State Children’s Health Insurance Program by proclaiming March 23 to 27 “The Week of the Uninsured” at its March 23 meeting.

“In this difficult economy, it’s tougher than ever for families to afford health insurance, but we as a region cannot afford to let the children of King County go uninsured,” said Councilmember Larry Phillips, sponsor of the proclamation. “Our children are our greatest investment in the future; their health is paramount. The State Children’s Health Insurance Program is a safety net that should protect every child.”

The State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) was established in 1997 to provide health care for children who are not eligible for Medicaid and unable to afford medical care. Today more than 570,000 children in Washington State and 11 million nationwide are provided medical care through SCHIP. The U.S. Senate and House of Representatives voted last month to expand SCHIP to many previously uninsured children, but the program still does not provide care for all children.

Today, 65,000 children in Washington State are still not covered under SCHIP.