CHICAGO (AP) — Illinois is receiving a performance bonus for the third straight year for enrolling significant numbers of uninsured children in Medicaid.
Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius announced the awards Wednesday. Illinois is getting $15 million. It's one of 23 states to share nearly $300 million in federal performance bonuses this year for expanding children's health coverage.
Health officials say Illinois has streamlined the process of enrolling children for health coverage. Applicants are not required to appear for in-person interviews, which can be difficult for parents who work. Illinois also guarantees eligible children enrollment for a full year, ensuring that they get uninterrupted coverage.
Funding for the performance bonuses was included in the 2009 reauthorization of the State Children's Health Insurance Program.
Copyright 2011 The Associated Press.
