ARKids First

ARKids First Health insurance provides two coverage options for more than 70,000 Arkansas children who otherwise might go without. ARKids A is Medicaid for children and offers low-income families a comprehensive package of benefits. ARKids B provides coverage for families with higher incomes. When you fill out an application, you can apply for both programs. The Department of Human Services (DHS) will decide if you qualify for either program.

 ARKids First will not make payments to you. It pays doctors, hospitals, and other healthcare providers who are enrolled in the Medicaid program.

There are no deductibles, premiums, or copayments for ARKids A coverage for children under 18. Children who are 18 will have nominal cost sharing at the pharmacy, at the hospital on the first day of a hospitalization covered by Medicaid, and for prescription services for eyeglasses

For ARKids B coverage, there are no deductibles or premiums, but you may be asked to make a small copayment—usually $10—when you visit the doctor.

ARKids First does not provide insurance for adults or caregivers. ARKids First A and B only apply to children younger than 19 years old. The parents or caregivers do count as part of the total number of family members when deciding eligibility. Medicaid-eligible adults (aged 19 or older) are covered separately under regular Medicaid.

Apply online at access.arkansas.gov. You can also print and complete an application to send to your local DHS office. You will need to give proof of your children’s ages with your application. If they are not U.S. citizens, youwill also have to give proof of their immigration status.