Apple Health for Kids, Washington’s health coverage program for children, has won $12 million from the federal government for connecting more children to health care.
The Obama Administration awarded the money, a performance bonus, to Washington on Wednesday, Dec. 19. Our state was among 23 states nationwide to earn bonuses for getting more children enrolled in health coverage.
“This is something to celebrate,” said Jon Gould, Children’s Alliance Deputy Director. “The performance bonus recognizes Apple Health for Kids for what it is: a winning strategy to connect Washington’s children with the health care they need to thrive.”
Apple Health for Kids is affordable, comprehensive health coverage offered by the State of Washington. It was created by the State Legislature in 2007 for families with no other options for affordable coverage, and it currently covers nearly half of the state’s children.
Washington state’s successful health coverage boosts its reputation as a great place to grow healthy kids. Our state ranks fourth in the nation for child health, according to the Annie E. Casey Foundation’s KIDS COUNT 2012 report.
Apple Health for Kids is also an essential component of our state’s efforts to provide children with the opportunity of a basic education, said Gould.
“Children do best in school when they’re healthy,” Gould said. “Apple Health for Kids prepares children for a brighter future by connecting them with the coverage they need today.”
Since December 2009, Apple Health for Kids has earned the state nearly $60 million in federal performance bonuses. The bonus money will be delivered by the end of the year.
