Children's Alliance opposes asset test for families with Healthy Kids coverage

Changes would delay health care for some children, deny others, because of three-year asset "look-back"

Written comments of Steve Varnum, Children's Alliance of NH Public Policy Director, opposing the proposed rules

August 22, 2005

Commissioner John Stephen
Department of Health & Human Services
129 Pleasant Street
Concord, New Hampshire 03301

RE: Transfer of Assets Section 1115 Research & Demonstration Waiver Proposal

Dear Commissioner Stephen:

The Children's Alliance of New Hampshire, on behalf of the thousands of children and families who will be harmed by the Transfer of Assets Section 1115 Research & Demonstration Waiver Proposal, requests that you withdraw all elements of that proposal that would affect enrollment in the New Hampshire Healthy Kids program.

As you know, the Legislature this year rejected a proposed asset test on families applying for Healthy Kids coverage. That rejection was based on sound public policy: Children's health insurance is one of the best government investments because it pays for itself many times over in public health care savings during that child's lifetime.

The asset transfer restrictions in the current waiver proposal would keep some children from qualifying for the Healthy Kids Gold program. Many parents or guardians whose children would qualify despite those restrictions will be discouraged from applying because they lack 3-year-old bank statements and other required documentation. And some who will eventually qualify will have their eligibility -- and needed medical treatment -- delayed until their parents can produce the documents.

At a time when New Hampshire needs to reduce the 17,000 children who remain uninsured, this proposal would add to that number.

Again, we ask you to exempt the Healthy Kids program from your Transfer of Assets Waiver proposal.

Thank you for the opportunity to comment.

Sincerely,

Steve Varnum
Public Policy Director
Children's Alliance of NH