Maximizing Kids’ Enrollment in Medicaid and SCHIP: What Works in Reaching, Enrolling and Retaining Eligible Children

Nearly two thirds of the nation's 8.9 million uninsured children are eligible but not enrolled in Medicaid and SCHIP. This new report from the National Academy for State Health Policy, the National Program Office for the Maximizing Enrollment for Kids program of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, examines strategies states can use to increase enrollment in these two programs.

Building on a 2006 NASHP report, the new paper reviews literature and expert opinions to elaborate on seven strategies states can implement to maximize enrollment for uninsured children eligible for public coverage. From simplifying the enrollment process to implementing the latest technology and urging political leaders to make enrollment a priority, the report lays out key steps that states may consider when tackling the difficult issues of making sure the pathways for enrollment and renewal for all eligible children are as efficient as possible.

The seven strategies states can pursue are:
 

• Keeping enrollment and renewal procedures simple
• Reaching out through community-based organizations and institutions
• Using technology to coordinate programs and reduce administrative burdens
• Changing agency culture to promote enrollment
• Engaging leaders to champion the goal of enrolling children
• Engaging partners to help reach enrollment goals
• Using marketing to promote enrollment in public programs

The report contains important information for states on each of these strategies and can be an invaluable tool for policy makers, program administrators, children's health care advocates and others concerned with children's health.