Daytona State partners with Florida KidCare to promote low-cost healthcare services

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (February 14, 2019) – In collaboration with the Florida College System, Daytona State College has partnered with Florida KidCare to promote opportunities for parents to access affordable, quality healthcare for their children from birth through age 18. All Florida children are eligible, even if one or both parents is working or in school.

"This is a wonderful opportunity for eligible staff, students and the general public to secure quality healthcare coverage for their children," said Magnolia Varon, a DSC nursing instructor and KidCare liaison. "We want as many people as possible to know that this is an affordable option, even if they don't qualify for free health and dental services under this plan."

Nearly 150,000 children in Florida currently live without health insurance, but may be eligible for low-cost or completely free health insurance through Florida KidCare. With four unique Florida KidCare programs – Medicaid for Children, MediKids, Florida Healthy Kids and the Children's Medical Services Managed Care Plan – the simple and free application process can help parents identify the best fit for the family.

KidCare coverage options include doctor visits and check-ups; hospital stays and surgeries; immunizations and prescriptions; emergency room visits; and vision, hearing, dental, mental health services and more.

Most families pay nothing for KidCare coverage. Many families pay as little as $15 or $20 a month. Families not eligible for subsidized coverage may purchase Florida KidCare at the full-pay monthly premium, which is competitively priced. A free online eligibility calculator is available for Florida families interested in applying. This tool utilizes two key pieces of information — family size and annual household income — to estimate a family's monthly premium payment for Florida KidCare coverage.

Parents can apply year-round for Florida KidCare, which will match each applicant with the right option based on their children's ages, household size and family income. Parents can apply online or call 1-888-540-KIDS (5437) to apply over the phone or have an application mailed directly to them.

###

---