CMS approves Arizona's plan to re-open CHIP

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has approved Arizona’s plan to allow new enrollment in the Children’s Health Insurance Program. “Today’s approval is a step forward for the health of Arizona children in low-income families,” said Vikki Wachino, CMS deputy administrator and director of the Center for Medicaid and CHIP Services. “With Arizona’s decision, all states in the nation now provide CHIP coverage to any eligible child who applies.” Starting tomorrow, Arizona will end the enrollment freeze that had been in place for several years and start accepting new applications, according to CMS. Children will be able to access services beginning Sept. 1. The state estimates that about 30,000 to 40,000 children will become eligible for coverage.