What was the original intent of the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP)?

The original intent of the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) was to provide health coverage for uninsured children in families that earn too much to qualify for Medicaid, but still require assistance due to low to moderate income. Established in 1997, CHIP aimed to bridge the gap between Medicaid eligibility and private insurance coverage, ensuring that all children have access to necessary health services. This initiative recognizes that many families may not qualify for Medicaid, yet they struggle to afford private health insurance premiums. By focusing on this demographic, CHIP has significantly improved access to healthcare for millions of children who would otherwise be uninsured. This focus on expanding coverage for children in this specific income bracket is what differentiates it from other health programs.