Arkansas ARKids First Program Benefits
ARKids First is a health insurance program that provides coverage for thousands of children across the state. It covers well-child checkups, eye exams, dental checkups and more. It’s insurance that is growing healthy kids in Arkansas and it might be the answer for health coverage for your children. ARKids First covers many of the preventive services and medical care your child may need, including important childhood immunizations and well-child checkups.
The ARKids program provides a full package of benefits under two coverage options based on family income: There is no charge when you child participates in ARKids A. For ARKids B, there are co-payment required for some services. Your children’s health is important to you and to us, so check out the links for more information. If you have questions please call the ARKids hotline at 1-888-474-8275 Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
Arkansas ARKids First Program
The Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) provides health coverage to nearly eight million children and families with incomes too high to qualify for Medicaid, but can't afford private coverage. In some states, CHIP covers parents and pregnant women. Each state offers CHIP coverage, and works closely with its state Medicaid program. Please note: these programs may be called by different names in your state. Some benefits covered through CHIP, include:
- Routine check-ups
- Immunizations
- Doctor visits
- Prescriptions
- Dental and vision care
- Inpatient and outpatient hospital care
- Laboratory and X-ray services
- Emergency services
About Arkansas ARKids First Program
The ARKids First program is a health insurance program in the state of Arkansas that provides coverage for uninsured children and teens up to age 19. It is designed to ensure that children have access to necessary medical services, including doctor visits, dental care, and prescription medications. Here are some key points about the ARKids First program:
Coverage Options: ARKids First offers two coverage options: ARKids A and ARKids B.
- ARKids A: This is Medicaid coverage for low-income families. It provides comprehensive benefits, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and preventive care.
- ARKids B: This is coverage for families with higher incomes who do not qualify for Medicaid. It is a cost-sharing program with monthly premiums based on family income. ARKids B also provides coverage for a range of health services.
Income Eligibility: Eligibility for ARKids First is based on family income. Families with incomes above the Medicaid threshold may qualify for ARKids B.
Application Process: Families can apply for ARKids First through the Department of Human Services (DHS) in Arkansas. The application process may include providing information about household income, family size, and other relevant details.
Benefits: The program covers a wide range of health services, including doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription medications, vaccinations, and preventive care. Dental and vision services are also covered.
Renewal: Eligibility for ARKids First is reviewed periodically, and families need to renew their coverage to continue receiving benefits.
Provider Network: ARKids First members can access services from a network of healthcare providers that participate in the program.
It's important for families to check the specific eligibility requirements and coverage details on the official website of the Arkansas Department of Human Services or contact the department directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information. Program details may change over time, and eligibility criteria can be subject to adjustments.
Purpose of the Arkansas ARKids First Program
The primary purpose of the Arkansas ARKids First program is to ensure that children and teens in the state have access to affordable and comprehensive health care coverage. The program aims to improve the health outcomes of Arkansas's youth by providing them with essential medical services and promoting preventive care. Here are some key purposes of the ARKids First program:
- Access to Healthcare Services: The program aims to remove financial barriers to healthcare for children and teens in low-income families. By providing coverage for a range of medical services, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and preventive care, ARKids First seeks to ensure that eligible children have timely access to necessary healthcare.
- Preventive Care and Early Intervention: ARKids First emphasizes preventive care, including regular check-ups and vaccinations. By promoting early intervention and preventive measures, the program aims to address health issues before they become more severe, ultimately contributing to better long-term health outcomes for children.
- Coverage for Low-Income Families: ARKids A, the Medicaid component of the program, targets families with lower incomes. This ensures that even families facing financial challenges can access necessary healthcare services for their children.
- Coverage for Higher-Income Families: ARKids B, the cost-sharing component of the program, extends coverage to families with higher incomes who may not qualify for traditional Medicaid but still need assistance with healthcare costs. This helps bridge the gap for families with moderate incomes who might face challenges in affording private health insurance.
- Dental and Vision Coverage: In addition to medical services, ARKids First provides coverage for dental and vision services, recognizing the importance of oral and eye health in overall well-being.
- Reducing Uninsured Rates: One of the overarching goals is to reduce the number of uninsured children and teens in the state. By offering affordable health insurance options, the program seeks to ensure that a greater proportion of Arkansas's youth have consistent access to healthcare.
Overall, the ARKids First program aligns with broader public health objectives, emphasizing the importance of early and continuous healthcare for children to support their physical, mental, and developmental well-being.
Arkansas ARKids First Program Benefits
The Arkansas ARKids First program provides a range of benefits to eligible children and teens in the state. The specific benefits may vary depending on whether a child is enrolled in ARKids A (Medicaid) or ARKids B (cost-sharing program). Here are some common benefits offered by the ARKids First program:
Common Benefits for ARKids A (Medicaid):
- Comprehensive Medical Services: ARKids A covers a broad range of medical services, including doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries, and specialist care.
- Prescription Medications: The program covers necessary prescription medications prescribed by healthcare providers.
- Preventive Care: ARKids A emphasizes preventive care, including well-child check-ups, vaccinations, and screenings to identify and address health issues early.
- Dental Services: Dental coverage is included, providing for routine check-ups, cleanings, and necessary dental treatments.
- Vision Services: Vision care, including eye exams and corrective lenses, is typically covered under ARKids A.
- Mental Health Services: Mental health services, including counseling and therapy, may be covered to address the mental well-being of enrolled children.
Additional Benefits for ARKids B (Cost-Sharing Program):
- Coverage for Higher-Income Families: ARKids B extends coverage to families with higher incomes who do not qualify for traditional Medicaid but still need assistance with healthcare costs.
- Premiums and Cost-Sharing: Families enrolled in ARKids B may be required to pay monthly premiums and cost-sharing amounts based on their income. This is a shared-cost approach to make healthcare more affordable for moderate-income families.
- Same Comprehensive Benefits as ARKids A: While families in ARKids B may have additional cost-sharing responsibilities, they generally receive the same comprehensive benefits as those in ARKids A.
It's important for families to check the specific details of the benefits and any changes in the program guidelines, as they may be subject to updates. Families can contact the Arkansas Department of Human Services or visit the official ARKids First program website for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding program benefits and eligibility.
Who is eligible for Arkansas ARKids First Program
To be eligible for this benefit program, you must be a resident of Arkansas and meet all of the following:
- Either 18 years of age and under or a primary care giver with a child(ren) 18 years of age and under, and
- A U.S. Citizen, National, or a Non-Citizen legally admitted into the U.S, and
- Uninsured (and ineligible for Medicaid).
Arkansas ARKids First Program Income Limits
In order to qualify, you must have an annual household income (before taxes) that is below the following amounts:
| Household Size | Maximum Income Level (Per Year) |
| 1 | $30,764 |
| 2 | $41,610 |
| 3 | $52,455 |
| 4 | $63,300 |
| 5 | $74,146 |
| 6 | $84,991 |
| 7 | $95,837 |
| 8 | $106,682 |
For households with more than eight people, add $10,845 per additional person. Always check with the appropriate managing agency to ensure the most accurate guidelines.
Documents Required for Arkansas ARKids First Program
The specific documents required for the Arkansas ARKids First program may vary based on individual circumstances and the specific details of a family's situation. However, in general, when applying for the ARKids First program, you may be asked to provide the following types of documents and information:
- Proof of Identity: Birth certificates or other documents establishing the identity of the child or children applying for the program.
- Proof of Citizenship or Immigration Status: Documents verifying the citizenship or immigration status of the child or children, such as birth certificates, passports, or immigration documents.
- Proof of Residency: Documents demonstrating that the child or children reside in Arkansas. This could include utility bills, rental agreements, or other documents showing a physical address in the state.
- Proof of Income: Documentation of household income, such as pay stubs, tax returns, or employer statements. This is a crucial aspect of determining eligibility for ARKids A and ARKids B.
- Social Security Numbers: Social Security numbers for all family members applying for the program.
- Health Insurance Information: Information about any existing health insurance coverage for family members, if applicable.
- Other Financial Information: Information about assets, savings, and other financial resources of the household.
- Information on Other Household Members: Details about other people living in the household, including their relationships to the child or children applying for ARKids First.
- School Enrollment Information: Verification of school enrollment for school-aged children.
- Special Circumstances Documentation: Any additional documentation related to special circumstances, such as legal guardianship papers or court orders, if applicable.
It's important to note that the application process for ARKids First may involve an interview with a representative from the Arkansas Department of Human Services. During the interview, you may be asked to provide additional information or clarification about your situation.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information on required documents and the application process, it is recommended to contact the Arkansas Department of Human Services or visit the official ARKids First program website. They can provide specific guidance tailored to your situation.
Required Eligibility for the Arkansas ARKids First Program
Eligibility for the Arkansas ARKids First program is based on various factors, primarily centered around the income and household composition of the family. The program includes two components: ARKids A (Medicaid) and ARKids B (cost-sharing program). Here are some key eligibility criteria:
For ARKids A (Medicaid):
- Income Eligibility: Families must meet specific income guidelines to qualify for ARKids A. The income eligibility levels are typically based on the federal poverty level (FPL), and eligibility may vary depending on the size of the household.
- Age: ARKids A is primarily designed for children and teens up to the age of 19.
- Citizenship/Immigration Status: Eligible individuals must be U.S. citizens or qualified immigrants.
- Residency: Applicants must be residents of the state of Arkansas.
For ARKids B (Cost-Sharing Program):
- Income Eligibility: ARKids B is designed for families with higher incomes that exceed the limits for traditional Medicaid but are still within specified income guidelines.
- Age: Like ARKids A, ARKids B is for children and teens up to the age of 19.
- Citizenship/Immigration Status: Similar to ARKids A, eligible individuals for ARKids B must be U.S. citizens or qualified immigrants.
- Residency: Applicants must be residents of Arkansas.
Common Criteria for Both Programs:
- Social Security Numbers: Applicants are generally required to provide Social Security numbers for all family members applying for the program.
- Other Health Insurance Coverage: Applicants may need to provide information about any existing health insurance coverage for family members.
- Verification of Information: The Arkansas Department of Human Services may request documentation to verify the information provided during the application process, including proof of income, residency, and other relevant details.
It's important to note that eligibility criteria and income guidelines can change, and they may be subject to updates by the state. Families interested in applying for the ARKids First program should contact the Arkansas Department of Human Services or visit the official ARKids First program website to obtain the most accurate and up-to-date information on eligibility requirements and the application process.
How do I apply for Arkansas ARKids First Program?
To apply online, please visit the Access Arkansas online application portal. For additional application information, visit the How do I apply page. You will be able to download an application form directly from the site. You may also find out if you qualify through the Marketplace application.
Arkansas Summer Food Service Program BenefitsHow To Apply For Arkansas ARKids First Program?
To apply for the Arkansas ARKids First program, you can follow these general steps. Keep in mind that the application process may evolve, so it's advisable to check the official Arkansas Department of Human Services website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information.
Review Eligibility Criteria: Before applying, review the eligibility criteria for ARKids A (Medicaid) and ARKids B (cost-sharing program) to determine if your family meets the requirements.
Gather Necessary Documents: Collect required documents, such as proof of income, proof of identity, proof of residency, Social Security numbers for all family members, and any other documentation specified in the application process.
Access the Application:
- There are several ways to access the ARKids First application:
- Online: Visit the official Arkansas Department of Human Services website to find the online application portal.
- In-Person: Applications can be submitted in person at your local Department of Human Services office.
- By Mail: You can request a paper application by contacting the Arkansas Department of Human Services.
Complete the Application: Fill out the application form with accurate and detailed information. Provide all necessary documentation to support your application.
Submit the Application: Submit the completed application and supporting documents through the chosen method (online, in-person, or by mail). If applying online, follow the instructions on the website.
Application Review: After submitting the application, the Arkansas Department of Human Services will review the information provided. They may contact you for additional information if needed.
Interview (if required): In some cases, applicants may be required to participate in an interview. This can be done in person, by phone, or through other means.
Notification of Eligibility: Once the application is processed, you will be notified of the eligibility determination. If eligible, you will receive information about the coverage your family qualifies for.
Enrollment: If approved, follow the instructions provided to enroll in the ARKids First program. This may include selecting a health plan if applicable.
Renewal: Keep track of renewal deadlines and provide any required information to maintain continuous coverage.
Remember to check for updates on the application process and eligibility criteria, as these can change. For the most accurate information, contact the Arkansas Department of Human Services or visit their official website.
Arkansas ARKids First Program Phone Number
To learn more about the program, please visit the ARKids First page. You may also use the County Office List to find a service center near you. For additional details, please visit the Medicaid & CHIP Policies page and select your state. 1-855-372-1084.