The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services have approved the expansion of Medicaid coverage for Hawaii’s keiki, according to the state’s Department of Human Services.

Changes allow for Hawaii keiki to remain covered by Hawaii’s Medicaid program — QUEST — without interruption:

• Children under age 6 will have continuous coverage until their 6th birthday.
• Children ages 6 to 19 will receive coverage for two years at a time.

DHS explains that with the change, families won’t be required to reapply as often thus reducing paperwork.

“More than 50 percent of our keiki in Hawaii receive access to healthcare through Medicaid,” said Department of Human Services Director Ryan Yamane in a release. “This new policy ensures they’ll have access to essential health services without disruptions.” 

Hawaii joins the move toward expanded continuous Medicaid coverage for children alongside 12 other states including Colorado, Kansas, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Utah and Washington.

DHS cites studies showing that Medicaid coverage “provides long-term benefits for children, including better health, improved school performance and greater success in adulthood.” The program also strengthens communities and reduces stress for families by simplifying enrollment and minimizing gaps in care.

Visit the Med-QUEST Division website to apply for QUEST (Medicaid) coverage for your keiki.