Most Texans have already stretched the family budget this summer to keep up with rising food costs and gas prices. And now it's back-to-school time -- time to find money for supplies, clothes and shoes.

Fortunately, a pair of state programs may be able to help residents check off one essential item from their list: affordable health coverage for children.

Without health insurance, a trip to the emergency room or even a routine visit to the doctor can bust a household budget.

The Children's Health Insurance Program and Children's Medicaid are there to help Texas families. These programs provide health care coverage to families who earn up to 200 percent of the federal poverty level. That's $42,000 a year for a family of four, and some expenses for child care also may be deductible.

Medicaid is free for children who qualify. CHIP enrollment fees are based on income and range from no fee to $50 for a year of coverage for all children in a family.

Programs cover pre-existing conditions and offer a choice of doctors. Services include doctor visits, dental care, immunizations, hospital care, surgery, X-rays, eye exams and glasses, prescription drugs, emergency services and access to medical specialists.

For more information, visit www.CHIPmedicaid.org or call 2- 1-1.