Medical grants available for insured families

KANSAS CITY, Missouri - While insurance helps reduce the cost of medical treatment, it rarely covers everything. There are programs that help bridge the gap. It's all about knowing where to turn for help.

The Whitty's have two boys that are autistic. Simon was diagnosed first.

"He started off banging his head, screaming, no eye contact, no words," mom Jenny Whitty explained.

The family enrolled Simon in therapy never expecting their insurance would not cover 88 percent of the cost. The family is left with a steep financial burden.

"$40,000 is somebody's job and we didn't have that much money," Whitty said.

The family applied for medical grants, and was repeatedly denied because they have insurance.

"I call it the uninsured insured," Whitty said.

United Healthcare recognizes the gap in coverage and started a Children's Foundation in 1999 to financially assist families.

"People could have great health insurance but still have some financial responsibility that may be beyond their means," United Healthcare Kansas CEO Bill Tracey said.

You can apply if your child is privately insured and under age 16.

In 2008, United's Foundation gave out 450 grants.

Unlike most businesses and charities, the foundation isn't cutting back. It's ready to help more families.

"I think we have the resources to do a substantial amount of giving," Tracey said.

Whitty got a $2,000 gift, but you could get up to $5,000. There are some income requirements, but Whitty says every penny helps her kids. While United gave her a "yes" first, she also got money from other foundations and grant opportunities. Still, the family has $100,000 in medical expenses since they have two children with autism.

Whitty says every penny is worth it when she looks at the progress her children are making. "Every day I look at him and pinch myself," Whitty said.

Simon is doing so well he's in a normal preschool and will attend regular kindergarten next year.

Click here for information about emergency funding for those in creative arts industries.

Click here for information about Cerner's First Assistance Hand.