ARKids First
ARKids First provides health insurance to children who otherwise might not get medical care
- Agency
- Arkansas Department of Human Services
- Type
- State Resource
- Phone
- 1-888-474-8275
- Application Period
- Income Limit
ARKids First provides health insurance to children who otherwise might not get medical care.
ARKids First provides health insurance to children who otherwise might not get medical care.
Eligibility Requirements
Resident of Arkansas, under 19 years of age, not covered by any other insurance, US national, citizen, legal alien, or permanent resident, and family must meet income guidelines.
Application Process
Apply online, by phone, or through a paper application mailed to the listed address.
Required Documents
Proof of income, proof of residency, identity verification of the child (birth certificate or other legal documentation).
Images & PDFs
Arkansas Medicaid Program Overview
A visual representation of Medicaid program distribution in Arkansas, highlighting various programs and their beneficiary percentages.
View Full ImageARKids First Overview
An informational document from the Arkansas Department of Human Services about ARKids First, detailing its health coverage benefits and application process.
View Full ImageMedicaid Overview Booklet SFY 2017 Arkansas
A comprehensive guide detailing the benefits, eligibility criteria, and application process for Medicaid in Arkansas, aimed at supporting individuals and families in need.
View Full ImageMedicaid Overview Booklet SFY 2017
A comprehensive guide from the Arkansas Department of Human Services offering insights into Medicaid usage, detailing claim payments, beneficiary statistics, and encouraging access to Medicaid benefits.
View Full ImageSpecial Education Referral Process
An outline of the referral process for special education services provided by the Arkansas Department of Education. It details steps and timelines for evaluation and placement.
View Full ImageImpact Reports
Rising Costs and the Need for Assistance: An Analysis of Economic Conditions
1/10/2023 | Coverage: national
This national analysis discusses how rising costs of living and stagnant wages contribute to the increased demand for public assistance programs, including ARKids First, while debunking myths surrounding aid as mere 'handouts.'
Source: Economic Policy Institute
Coverage Area: national
The Impact of ARKids First on Low-Income Families in Arkansas
6/15/2022 | Coverage: state
This report examines the positive effects of ARKids First on the health and economic stability of low-income families in Arkansas, illustrating the program's critical role in providing essential healthcare coverage.
Source: Arkansas Department of Human Services
Coverage Area: state
Understanding the Role of Medicaid Expansion in Reducing Stigma
11/20/2021 | Coverage: national
This report investigates how Medicaid programs, such as ARKids First, contribute to reducing stigma around receiving healthcare assistance and their broader impact on community wellbeing.
Source: Healthcare for All
Coverage Area: national
Program Timeline
Extension of ARKids First
12/1/2020The program received funding extension through the COVID-19 relief packages to maintain health coverage during the pandemic.
Medicaid Expansion under ACA
1/1/2014Arkansas opted for a unique Medicaid expansion through the ACA, affecting eligibility for ARKids First.
Affordable Care Act Implementation
3/23/2010The ACA introduced provisions that expanded coverage for children, impacting state programs like ARKids First.
Expansion of ARKids First
8/1/2006The program was expanded to cover more children by increasing income eligibility limits.
ARKids First Program Launch
1/1/2000The ARKids First program was established to provide health insurance coverage for uninsured children in Arkansas.
FAQ
ARKids First is a program in Arkansas that provides health insurance for children from low-income families. It is designed to ensure that every child in Arkansas has access to quality healthcare services, regardless of their family's financial situation.
Reference: https://humanservices.arkansas.gov/about-dhs/arkids-first
ARKids First covers a wide range of services, including regular check-ups, vaccinations, emergency care, prescription medications, and hospital stays. Additionally, it offers coverage for dental and vision care, which are crucial for children's overall health.
Reference: https://humanservices.arkansas.gov/services/arkids-first-coverage
Children up to age 19 from families that meet certain income guidelines are eligible for ARKids First. This program is available for uninsured children and offers two levels of coverage based on family income. It is important to apply to determine specific eligibility.
Reference: https://humanservices.arkansas.gov/services/arkids-first-eligibility
