An Update on Cook Children's Health Plan

As you may recall, we were very successful in our court battles last year regarding efforts to save Cook Children's Health Plan.

Over the past year, our painstaking government and public relations efforts raised awareness of Cook Children's Health Care System's immense value and our health plan's vital role in the communities we serve. During this time, we also forged many new connections and relationships in Austin and across the state. Simply put, our elected officials heard us!

Unfortunately, despite numerous persuasive and impactful efforts, the issue did not receive a hearing in either the House or Senate chambers during the 89th Legislative Session. The legislative leadership felt it was best that the matter be settled through the courts. In addition, the Governor’s Special Session is underway and does not include this issue. (We understand addressing the Central Texas flood tragedy in July is a top priority.)

A recent Fort Worth Star-Telegram article offers some helpful background and insights on the situation.

So, what’s next and where do things stand today?

Our commitment to our Promise—doing everything for the child—is unwavering. While our fight to save the Cook Children's Health Plan will continue in the courts, we will remain focused on the children and families who trust and count on Cook Children’s.

To our members, families, physicians, providers, and employees who are part of Cook Children’s Health Plan: Please know that Cook Children’s Health Plan is still contracted with Health and Human Services to provide these services to children and expectant moms in the Tarrant County Service Area, and there are no new STAR/CHIP signed contracts or other immediate plans to transition Cook Children’s out of the program at this time. This means it is business as usual, with NO interruptions or changes to the services provided.