In Rhode Island family law cases, child custody can be challenging. The best interests of the child must be adhered to. Naturally, that includes having a safe environment in which to live; a good education; having clothing and proper nutrition; and extracurricular activities. In addition, the child needs to have medical support. A frequent fear for parents who are newly divorced and have young children is how they will make ends meet. Since health care can be so costly, a sufficient insurance plan is key. This can be a point of contention between parents and it is important to understand how the state handles it.
Important points about medical support as part of child support
The law mandates that a child receive medical coverage or a cash medical order. This is required at the federal and state level. For children who are covered by the state, the Rhode Island Office of Child Support will try to get the non-custodial parent to pay for private care if it is part of their employment benefits package and there is limited or no cost for it.
Non-custodial parents who are getting coverage through their job could be ordered to add the child to the plan when the cost is less than or equal to 5% of their gross income each month. It is then out of the non-custodial parent’s hands as the employer will be notified to add the child to the plan. When it costs more than 5%, the court could tell the non-custodial parent that there must be a 5% addition to the child support order. The custodial parent has no choice but to use the non-custodial parent’s coverage if the state decides that will be the source of medical care.
Both parents should know the details about medical coverage with child support
Health coverage is a crucial part of family law and a child receiving all the necessary care. It is an essential aspect of child support that people might not fully grasp as their case proceeds. Parents with children ranging from infancy to their teen years can ask for support for medical coverage. Still, there could be disparities regarding the case. In some situations, any disagreement can be resolved amicably. In others, court intervention will be needed. Regardless of the circumstances, the child must take precedence and parents should know the details of medical coverage with child support.