At K21 Health Foundation, we believe that access to quality healthcare is a cornerstone of a thriving community. That’s why we’ve been supporters of Brightpoint in Kosciusko County since 2011. Their Covering Kids and Families program ensures that families in our community have the support they need to navigate the complex world of health insurance.
Why is Health Insurance Important?
Health insurance is a crucial safeguard for families, offering both health and financial protection. Here’s why it’s so vital:
- Comprehensive Coverage: Health insurance covers essential benefits critical for maintaining health and treating illnesses and accidents.
- Financial Protection: It shields you from unexpected, high medical costs. Without coverage, serious health issues can lead to deep debt or even bankruptcy.
- Cost Savings: Insured individuals pay less for covered in-network care, even before meeting their deductible. Insurance companies negotiate discounts with providers, often resulting in half the cost compared to those without coverage.
- Preventive Care: Many plans offer free preventive services like vaccines, screenings, and check-ups, promoting early detection and overall wellness.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing you’re protected against potential health and financial crises provides invaluable peace of mind for you and your family.
Recent statistics underscore these benefits, showing that uninsured individuals are more likely to delay necessary care and face preventable hospitalizations. By contrast, those with insurance can focus on staying healthy without the looming threat of medical bankruptcy. Those that don’t or can’t obtain insurance through their employer are often left with difficult or confusing paths to pursue Marketplace or public health insurance options, and often remain uninsured, putting themselves and their families at high risk. They need a place to turn for help and guidance.
What is the Covering Kids & Families Program?
Brightpoint’s Covering Kids & Families program is designed to help individuals and families in Kosciusko County access and maintain health insurance coverage. From assisting with new applications to guiding clients through the renewal or redetermination process, Brightpoint’s dedicated English and Spanish-speaking advocates are there every step of the way.
The impact of this program is truly remarkable. From January to September 2024 alone, Brightpoint in Kosciusko County:
- Helped with 275 new applications
- Assisted with 5 applications for the redetermination process
- Provided 761 assists with redetermination forms
These numbers represent real families in our community who now have access to essential healthcare services.
How Can Brightpoint Help You Get Covered?
Here are some key points to remember about health insurance:
- Know your options: Most families whose annual income falls below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level may qualify for Medicaid or other state insurance programs.
- Stay informed: Brightpoint handles all correspondence to ensure you don’t miss important deadlines for maintaining your coverage.
- Ask questions: Brightpoint staff are there to help you understand your benefits and answer any questions you may have.
- Regular check-ups: With insurance, you can prioritize preventive care and catch potential health issues early.
- Peace of mind: Health insurance provides financial protection and ensures access to necessary medical care for your family.
K21 Health Foundation is committed to creating a healthier future for our community, and the Covering Kids & Families program provided by Brightpoint is a vital step in that direction.
For more details about K21’s work in the community and current projects, visit our news page.
