Texas Healthcare Assistance Programs
Beyond Medicaid, Texas residents use CHIP, Healthy Texas Women, HealthCare.gov marketplace plans with subsidies (where applicable), and hospital charity care programs.
Texas CHIP (Children's Health Insurance Program)
CHIP premiums may apply for higher-income CHIP families — still far below private insurance.
What it provides: Low-cost health coverage for children in families earning too much for Medicaid.
Assistance: Checkups, immunizations, dental, vision, and hospital care with low copays.
Eligibility: Pregnant women may qualify for CHIP Perinatal in some cases.
Who may qualify:
- Children under 19
- Texas resident
- Household income within CHIP limits (higher than Medicaid)
Requirements:
- Apply at YourTexasBenefits.com
- 12-month continuous eligibility for children
How to apply: Same portal as Medicaid — HHSC determines Medicaid vs. CHIP eligibility.
Official source: Texas HHS — CHIP
Healthy Texas Women
Useful gap coverage for uninsured Texas women not qualifying for Medicaid.
What it provides: Family planning, screenings, and limited treatment for eligible Texas women ages 15–44.
Assistance: Pap tests, mammograms, contraception, and treatment for some STIs.
Eligibility: Does not cover full-scope health insurance — focused on women's health services.
Who may qualify:
- Texas women 15–44
- Income at or below 200% federal poverty level
- Not otherwise enrolled in full Medicaid
Requirements:
- Enroll through HHSC or participating provider
- Annual renewal
How to apply: Apply online or ask participating clinic to enroll you at point of service.
Official source: Texas HHS — Healthy Texas Women
HealthCare.gov Marketplace Plans (Texas)
Coverage gap exists for some Texas adults below 100% FPL due to non-expansion Medicaid.
What it provides: Private insurance with advance premium tax credits for qualifying Texas residents.
Assistance: APTC lowers monthly premium; CSR reduces cost-sharing on Silver plans if income qualifies.
Eligibility: Texas uses federal marketplace — not a state-based exchange.
Who may qualify:
- Not offered affordable employer coverage
- Income between 100%–400% FPL (subsidy range)
Requirements:
- Open Enrollment or Special Enrollment Period
- Estimate annual income carefully
How to apply: Create account at HealthCare.gov; compare Texas plans by county.
Official source: HealthCare.gov