Case Study of Illinois Exploring Links Between Policy Practice and the Trends in New MedicaidSCHIP Enrollments

This report assesses the impact of the Covering Kids & Families (CKF) program, sponsored by the 168, on the state of Illinois from 1999 through 2005. The CKF initiative has two goals: to reduce the number of uninsured children and adults eligible for health coverage, and to sustain the enrollment and retention of children and adults in those programs. During the period encompassed by the CKF grant, Illinois experienced State Children's Health Insurance Program and Medicaid enrollment increases that were among the highest in the nation. These enrollment increases are attributed to the simplification of income verification requirements and targeted public relations outreach, two initiatives that can be utilized in other states to improve access to health care for children and families.