The State Children’s health Insurance Program (SCHIP) is under attack by George Bush. The program began in 1997 which provides federal funds on a matching state fund basis to give health care to children unable to afford it. It was directed at families whose income was too high for Medicaid, but too low to afford private insurance coverage. According to the New England Journal of Medicine (Volume 357:1036 September 6, 2007) it has been enormously successful. Some 6 million have received coverage at a cost of $5 Billion a year to the federal government which is less then 1% of Medicare and Medicaid spending.

But, the program expires September 30^th this year unless reauthorized by Congress. A bipartisan agreement was reached by Congressional leaders for a new authorization which passed the full Senate and is waiting for joint House Senate committee review. In spite of substantial support by both parties President Bush nevertheless insists he will veto any measure that would increase costs more than the present $5 Billion over the next five years. This limitation would would require ending coverage for children already covered. The Bush position has resulted in surprised protests by legislative leaders in his own party who worked out the compromise to continue coverage. Protests have been raised by diverse interests including legislative leaders in both parties the AMA, AARP, medical corporations such as pharmaceutical interests and others.

Mr. Bush objects because he wants his own idea of a program instead. This is his plan for tax incentives that he thinks will result in private insurance coverage. As the NEJM points out, Mr. Bush "is making a serious mistake in holding children hostage for the sake of his personal political agenda. The editorial argues that no child should be left behind and no child should be left uncovered. This administration’s use of bare knuckle politics which hurt children, the poor and those least able to defend themselves is shameful.