Thousands of eligible kids miss health coverage

Last update: September 9, 2008 - 9:14 PM

Print this story

Follow local news on Twitter

More from Local + Metro

About 85,000 children remain without health insurance in Minnesota, and about half would qualify for state coverage but their families have not applied.

With schools back in session, the number of uninsured children puts a burden on school nurses, who now are being used as urgent care and primary care providers, with children coming in after a weekend with injuries or illnesses that should have been addressed earlier.

Reforms initiated in the past couple of years have simplified the procedure for applying for the state's health insurance programs, but Rep. Paul Thissen, DFL-Minneapolis, chairman of the House Health Care and Human Services Policy Committee, said at a State Capitol news conference that obstacles should be removed to gaining access, including the length of waiting periods and rising premiums in the program.

"There is a responsibility beyond the Legislature," Thissen added. "Community and families need to step up and make sure they are doing what's right for their kids and for all of our kids."

MARK BRUNSWICK

Recent Local + Metro stories

Oprah Winfrey's mother, Wis. fashion retailer settle bill dispute; terms not disclosed - September 9, 2008

Oprah Winfrey's mother, Wis. fashion retailer settle bill dispute; terms not disclosed - A financial dispute between Oprah Winfrey's mother and a high-end fashion store in Wisconsin has been settled. More