Event Archive

Daycare Centers Recognize Congressman Space for Supporting Health Insurance Program for Children

February 23, 2009

The students, teachers and parents in three daycares located in Zanesville, Chillicothe and New Philadelphia presented representatives from Ohio Congressman Zack Space's office, “thank you” signs expressing their appreciation for the Congressman’s support of the State Children Health Insurance Program (SCHIP). The card was signed by the students, teachers and many of the parents.

More than 140,000 children in Ohio depend on SCHIP to get the consistent and quality health care services they need. The program is critical to many families throughout Southeastern Ohio.

Legislation was passed by the Congress reauthorizing and expanding the SCHIP program which is designed to provide health insurance coverage for low-income children who are not eligible for Medicaid.

The Ohio Advocates for Health Care Access (OAHCA) -- a consortium of health associations, physician organizations, the bio-technology industry and community groups -- led an effort to send letters to the members of Ohio’s Congressional delegation who supported the bill thanking them for maintaining a program that “is critical to the health needs of Ohio’s children who do not have health coverage.”

Signed by more than 50 different organizations across the state, the letter notes that children without health coverage are at risk for successfully attaining educational achievement, as well as social and psychological development. In addition, the proper treatment of childhood diseases and consistent medical care will improve overall health care outcomes and costs.