KING COUNTY, WA - This Thursday, as part of Kids Day at the King County Fair, outreach workers from Public Health - Seattle & King County will be working with families to enroll eligible children and teens for free and low-cost health insurance. The application process is quick and easy.

As part of his Thursday visit to the King County Fair, King County Executive Ron Sims will visit the health insurance display in the Fair's Exhibit Hall to emphasize the importance of Public Health outreach work conducted throughout the County all year long.

"Healthy children are a cornerstone of healthy communities," said Sims. "As part of our effort to enroll all eligible young people, this outreach at the fair provides parents with an easy, convenient way to apply for health insurance." The application process takes about 15 minutes.

"Approximately 18,000 children and teens in King County are eligible to receive free health insurance but currently are not enrolled," said Dr. Alonzo Plough, Director of Public Health -Seattle & King County. "Many of these children's parents aren't aware that they are eligible for free or low-cost health insurance."

Many children are eligible for coverage. For example, a child in a family of four with a household monthly income of up to $3,678 may qualify for health coverage for only $10 per month. These children's health insurance programs provide coverage for doctor and nurse visits, dental visits, vision care, counseling and other services.

How to get health insurance:

• Public Health - Seattle & King County outreach workers will be present at the King County Fair in the Exhibit Hall on July 19 with applications. Parents may visit the Public Health display to get more information or to sign their children up at that time.
  
  
• Alternatively, parents can also call (253) 874-7642 or 1-800-756-KIDS anytime for an application or more information. Adults can apply for low-cost health insurance sponsored by Washington State's Basic Health Plan by calling 1-800-826-2444.
  
  
• More information on free and low-cost health insurance is also available on the Public Health website at www.metrokc.gov/health/insurance

More information on the King County Fair can be found on the Fair website at www.metrokc.gov/parks/fair.