Keeping children healthy and safe is every parent’s first priority. The good news for families living in the US state of Virginia is that the state government is providing complete and free health services to children through programs like Medicaid and FAMIS (Family Access to Medical Insurance Security). This program is specifically for children who live in Virginia, are under the age of 19, and whose families fall within certain income limits.
What is Medicaid and FAMIS?
Medicaid and FAMIS are two government health insurance schemes that provide free health services to children. The purpose of these schemes is that children not only get the necessary treatment, but also get periodic health checkups and preventive services, so that they can remain completely healthy and any disease can be treated in time.
Services covered in Medicaid and FAMIS:
Under both these programs, children get the following health services completely free:
- Regular doctor visits
- Emergency medicine and transportation
- Hospital treatment and care
- Mental and behavioral health services
- Prescription medicine
- Lab tests and X-rays
- Immunizations
- Vision tests and eyeglasses
- Well-baby check-ups
- Well-child check-ups
- Dental care
- And much more…
Additional benefits in Medicaid:
If the child is enrolled in Medicaid, he or she also gets some additional benefits:
- EPSDT (Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis and Treatment): This service provides children with a complete screening, diagnosis, and treatment, as required according to their age.
- Transportation to health services: If the family has no other means to reach a health center, the government also provides transportation.
Costs and Fees:
The best part is that children enrolled in Medicaid and FAMIS do not have to pay any premium, co-payment, deductible or any other fee. This service is completely free.
Eligibility Criteria:
A child may be eligible for Medicaid or FAMIS if:
- He or she lives in Virginia
- He or she is under 19 years of age
- He or she is a US citizen or legally living in the US
- His or her family’s annual income is within the set limits
Income limits (as of 2025):
Different income limits have been set for Medicaid and FAMIS based on family size:
| Family Size | Medicaid Annual Income | FAMIS Annual Income |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $23,162 | $32,083 |
| 2 | $31,302 | $43,358 |
| 3 | $39,442 | $54,633 |
| 4 | $47,582 | $65,908 |
| 5 | $55,722 | $77,183 |
| 6 | $63,862 | $88,458 |
| 7 | $72,002 | $99,733 |
| 8 | $80,142 | $111,008 |
The Medicaid limit increases by $8,140 and FAMIS by $11,275 for each additional member.
How to apply?
If you think your child may be eligible for Medicaid or FAMIS, you must submit a formal application. Sometimes eligibility may be granted under special circumstances (such as disability or waiver recipient) even if the income limit is not met.
You can apply by visiting the Virginia Medicaid website or contacting the Help Center.
After enrollment:
A child receives 12 months of continuous health coverage once enrolled in Medicaid or FAMIS. That is, service will be uninterrupted for a full year, unless:
- The child turns 19 (after which he or she will be evaluated as adult eligible)
- The child moves permanently out of Virginia or dies
- A parent or guardian voluntarily asks to terminate the plan
Annual renewal:
Each year, the state reviews the child’s eligibility. If the child is still eligible for Medicaid or FAMIS, he or she will be eligible for another 12 months of service. If the child is no longer eligible, his or her enrollment will end. In this case, the family may be redirected to Virginia’s Insurance Marketplace (VIM), which offers alternative health plans.
Why is it important to report the change?
Although the child receives 12 months of continuous coverage, it is important to report any changes to the family:
If adult family members are dependent on Medicaid, changes may be effective for them
Changes in contact information will ensure timely government notifications
If the child moves out of Virginia or dies, coverage termination is mandatory
Conclusion
Virginia’s Medicaid and FAMIS program is a strong and reliable health care system for children. This plan ensures that every child receives comprehensive medical, mental health, dental and behavioral services appropriate to their age and need at no cost. As a parent, if you live in Virginia and have limited income, this plan can be a boon for your child. Don’t hesitate, apply today and secure your child’s future.
