Maryland Children's Health Program (MCHP)

	What is MCHP?
	MCHP uses federal and state funds to provide health care coverage to low-income children up to age 19 and pregnant women of any age. This program began in July 1998. MCHP gives full health benefits for children up to age 19, and pregnant women of any age who meet the income guidelines. MCHP enrollees obtain care from a variety of Managed Care Organizations (MCOs) through the Maryland HealthChoice Program.


	*Who is eligible for MCHP?*
	Children under age 19, who are not eligible for Medicaid, and whose countable income is at or below 200% of the federal poverty level (FPL) Pregnant women of any age, whose countable income is at or below 250% FPL Uninsured. (NOTE: In some instances, having health insurance will not prevent eligibility for MCHP. Even if you have health insurance, it’s best to apply and let the case manager assigned to your application determine whether your health insurance will affect your eligibility for MCHP.) Click here to view the MCHP Income Guidlines Please Click Here for important citizenship and identity documentation that is required to process you application.


	What are the Benefits of MCHP?

	Benefits for children include:

	Doctor Visits (well and sick care) Hospital Care Lab Work and Tests Dental Care Vision Care Immunizations (shots) Prescription Medicines Transportation to Medical Appointments Mental Health Services Substance Abuse Treatment

	Benefits for Pregnant women include:

	Prenatal and Post-Partum Doctor Visits Hospital Delivery Bill Doctors Visits not relating to Pregnancy Lab Work and Tests Dental Care Vision Care Prescription Medicines (including vitamins) Transportation to Medical Appointments Mental Health Services Substances Abuse Services After delivery, family planning services


	How can I apply for MCHP?
	The application is brief and the process is simple. The application asks for general information, (such as name, telephone number), any insurance information, general information about family members, social security information for the applicants and income information. Click here to download an Application form in English. Click here to download an Application form in Spanish. Click here to download an Affidavit of Identity form in English Click here to download an Affidavit of Identity form in Spanish (The application forms is are .pdf format - if you do not have Adobe, please click here to download.) We will also mail an application form upon request. Once completed, you can drop your application form off at the William C. Fritz building (on the 2nd floor), or it can be mailed to 100 East Main Street, Salisbury, MD 21801, Attention MCHP Program. Those found eligible for MCHP will receive an enrollment packet in the mail to select a MCO for health care.


	*When can I see a doctor?*
	If you are eligible for MCHP, within 14 days you will receive a red and white Medical Assistance card. You may use this card to get health care until you enroll in the HealthChoice program and select a MCO. Do not throw away this card, it will allow you to obtain additional services even when you receive your MCO card. Within 5 days, you will receive your enrollment packet to select your MCO. If you do not receive your enrollment packet within two weeks, contact your case manager immediately. Once you receive your enrollment package in the mail: You will need to find out from your doctor which MCO plans they accept. Pick a MCO and primary care doctor to provide your care. If you do not pick a MCO, the state will pick one for you Inform HealthChoice which MCO and doctor you have selected; Contact the doctor for an appointment.


	*How can I get more information?*
	Feel free to give us a call at (410) 543-6944 or stop by the William C. Fritz building (2nd floor) and a staff member will be happy to assist you with any questions you may have.