Lack of familiarity with New York State's Child Health Plus Plan has kept Korean green card applicants from applying for the program, thereby missing a good opportunity for their kids. According to the New York State government, Child Health Plus benefits are available through dozens of providers throughout the state for children of green card holders, applicants, citizens, and undocumented immigrants [the official state website application form says: "Almost all children are eligible for health insurance regardless of immigration status."].

Still, many Korean green card applicants misunderstand the state's children's health plan program, and some are afraid that if they receive benefits, U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services (USCIS) will be informed and their green card applications will be rejected.

Why do so many Korean green-card applicants mistakenly believe they should shy away from applying for these health benefits? Why do even those who have received benefits believe they must hide this information from other government agencies? It seems that many members of the Korean community in New York do not have a good grasp on the state's social welfare programs. More information and instruction is needed.

The Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services (BCIS) will clarify an applicant's status with regard to "public charge"—that is, whether or not an applicant has become a charge of, or dependent on, the state by receiving benefits from public assistance (welfare, TANF, SSI, or GA) or from long-term government-paid treatment. However, using routine and emergency medical care does classify the user as a public charge. Child Health Plus is a benefit, much like Medicaid, Family Health Plus, prenatal care, or other free or low-cost medical care, including emergency care. It is compatible with a green card.

Ko Kyong-mi, who works in the medical sector of the New York Korean Service Center, and is in charge of insurance, said, "We get two or three calls a day asking just this question about conditions for the application, required documents, etc. Since the state guarantees the program, there is no reason to hesitate to apply for Child Health Plus for your child." She also explained that Child Health Plus provides health insurance for children under 19 in New York State, with the state picking up costs that go beyond the premium. Client premium payments vary depending on monthly income, but since there are no co-payments, there is no fee for visits or service.

To apply for this plan, it is necessary to provide documentation such as proof of income, bank statements, proof of status, or confirmation of residency. For more detailed information or for an application, call 718-886-4126 or 718-886-7355.