Braces are a common orthodontic treatment for people with misaligned teeth, overbites, and underbites. Braces help to create a beautiful, healthy smile. Unfortunately, braces can be expensive and many people are unable to afford them without help. The North Carolina Health Choice (NCHC) program may be able to help cover the cost of braces.
What Is North Carolina Health Choice?
North Carolina Health Choice is a health care program for children who do not have access to other health care programs. The program provides free or low-cost health care coverage for children up to age 19. The program is funded by the federal and state governments, and is managed by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services.
Eligibility Requirements For North Carolina Health Choice
In order to qualify for North Carolina Health Choice, a child must meet certain eligibility requirements. These requirements are based on the child's age, family size, and income. The child must be:
- Under the age of 19
- A citizen or legal resident of the United States
- Residing in North Carolina
- Not eligible for any other type of insurance, including Medicaid and CHIP
In addition, the family must meet certain income requirements. The family's income must not exceed 200% of the federal poverty level. This varies by family size, and can be found on the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services website.
Does North Carolina Health Choice Cover Braces?
North Carolina Health Choice does cover braces for children who meet the eligibility requirements. The program covers both traditional braces and Invisalign braces. It also covers necessary dental work before the braces can be applied. The program covers up to $1000 per year for the cost of the braces, with a lifetime maximum of $3000.
How To Apply For North Carolina Health Choice
In order to apply for North Carolina Health Choice, you must complete an application. The application can be found on the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services website. It must be completed and submitted with all supporting documentation, such as proof of income, citizenship, and residency. Once the application is approved, the child will be eligible for the program.
How To Find A North Carolina Health Choice Provider
Once a child is enrolled in North Carolina Health Choice, the next step is to find a provider. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has a list of providers that are approved by the program. You can search for a provider by zip code or city to find one that is close to you. The provider list can also be found on the Department of Health and Human Services website.
What Other Services Does North Carolina Health Choice Cover?
In addition to covering braces, North Carolina Health Choice also covers other types of health care services. This includes preventive care, such as immunizations and well-child checkups. It also covers vision care, including eye exams, glasses, and contact lenses. The program also covers dental care, including cleanings, fillings, and extractions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is North Carolina Health Choice?
North Carolina Health Choice is a health care program for children who do not have access to other health care programs. The program provides free or low-cost health care coverage for children up to age 19.
Who is eligible for North Carolina Health Choice?
In order to qualify for North Carolina Health Choice, a child must be under the age of 19, a citizen or legal resident of the United States, residing in North Carolina, and not eligible for any other type of insurance, including Medicaid and CHIP. The family's income must also not exceed 200% of the federal poverty level.
Does North Carolina Health Choice cover braces?
Yes, North Carolina Health Choice does cover braces for children who meet the eligibility requirements. The program covers both traditional braces and Invisalign braces. It also covers necessary dental work before the braces can be applied.
How do I apply for North Carolina Health Choice?
In order to apply for North Carolina Health Choice, you must complete an application. The application can be found on the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services website. It must be completed and submitted with all supporting documentation, such as proof of income, citizenship, and residency.
How do I find a North Carolina Health Choice provider?
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has a list of providers that are approved by the program. You can search for a provider by zip code or city to find one that is close to you. The provider list can also be found on the Department of Health and Human Services website.
What other services does North Carolina Health Choice cover?
In addition to covering braces, North Carolina Health Choice also covers other types of health care services. This includes preventive care, such as immunizations and well-child checkups. It also covers vision care, including eye exams, glasses, and contact lenses. The program also covers dental care, including cleanings, fillings, and extractions.
What is the maximum amount of coverage provided by North Carolina Health Choice?
North Carolina Health Choice covers up to $1000 per year for the cost of braces, with a lifetime maximum of $3000.
How long does it take to process an application for North Carolina Health Choice?
The application process for North Carolina Health Choice typically takes two to four weeks. Once the application is approved, the child will be eligible for the program.