Texas Health Insurance Resources

If you are uninsurable due to pre-existing medical conditions, Texas has a risk pool. It is Texas Health Insurance Risk Pool (1-800-398-3927)

The Risk Pools is state-sponsored program to help people with major medical problems in their family. This pool is for people who can afford to buy health insurance, but are not able to get underwritten in the private market because of a pre-existing health condition. Insurance companies doing business in the state are required to contribute to the pool to keep it in the black. Currently Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas is managing this program.

Texas Children's Health Insurance Program

Families with uninsured children may be eligible for health coverage through Medicaid and the Texas CHIP. This coverage includes regular checkups and dental care. Call 1-877-543-7699.

To qualify for CHIP or Children's Medicaid, a child must be age 18 or younger, a Texas resident and a US citizen or legal permanent resident. The citizenship or immigration status of the parents does not affect the children's eligibility and is not reported on the application form.

Any adult who lives with an uninsured child and provides care for that child can apply. This includes parents, step-parents, grandparents, other relatives, legal guardians or adult brothers or sisters. There are income guidelines

Texas Medicaid Program

Medicaid is the State and Federal cooperative venture that provides medical coverage to eligible needy persons. The purpose of Medicaid in Texas is to improve the health of people who might otherwise go without medical care for themselves and their children. Medicaid is different in every state. HHSC's Medicaid Office is responsible for statewide oversight of the Texas Medicaid Program.