Healthy Start is a federally funded program designed to provide access to health services for the medically indigent; and to promote good health practices, health behaviors, and health attitudes among mothers and children. Healthy Start is part of Medicaid's Medical Assistance Program, and provides free or low-cost comprehensive medical coverage for children up to the age of nineteen, adults with minor children living in the home, and pregnant women. Coverage includes office visits, prescriptions, vision care, mental health care, alcohol and drug treatment, hospital care, and prenatal care.

DAISY L. ALFORD-SMITH

(SEE ALSO: Child Health Services; Maternal and Child Health; Medicaid)