Michigan's high-risk patients get HIP

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) - Residents of Michigan who are uninsured and considered high-risk may be eligible for a new program that will provide affordable coverage.

The Health Insurance Program (HIP) covers eligible citizens of Michigan with pre-existing conditions such as cancer, diabetes or heart disease.

New federal regulations and reduced premium will make HIP coverage more affordable. There are two HIP options for Michigan patients to choose, and provides insurance with low monthly premiums without reducing the benefits package.

A coaltion of leading healthcare advocates in Michigan - including hospitals, physicians, nurses, senior citizens, state government and others - support this plan.

HIP is part of a federal program established by the US Health and Human Services department in response to the Affordable Care Act. The plan is administered by Physicians Health Plan of Mid-Michigan.