What Is a Qualified Medical Child Support Order (QMSCO)? A qualified medical child support order (QMSCO) is a legally-binding document that establishes a health care coverage plan for a child until they turn 18. Once the order is in place, the responsible parent must provide health insurance for the child. This order does not replace health insurance coverage already established by a divorce or separation agreement. A QMSCO is beneficial to parents who are separated. Typically, each parent will still be required to contribute to the cost of their child’s health insurance. The order serves to assign financial responsibility to one parent, ensuring that the child’s healthcare is provided for, regardless of the parents’ relationship. How Is a QMSCO Obtained? A qualified medical child support order must be requested by the custodial parent, and it needs to be approved by a judge. The court will consider factors such as the parents’ incomes, the child’s needs, and available health care plans before making a determination. Depending on the situation, the judge may also consider the child’s other coverage options, such as Medicaid or CHIP. Once the order is in effect, both parents must follow the terms of the order, and they are legally bound to do so. This means that a parent who is ordered to provide health insurance is responsible for obtaining and providing the coverage. What Happens if the Requirements of a QMSCO Are Not Met? If a parent fails to meet the requirements of a qualified medical child support order, the other parent can seek recourse from the court. Depending on the severity of the issue, the court may order the responsible parent to compensate the other parent or pay a portion of the child’s medical bills. In extreme cases, the court may even hold the responsible parent in contempt of court. By entering into a qualified medical child support order, parents are committing to taking reasonable measures for providing necessary health care coverage for their child. This commitment is beneficial to all parties, as it helps ensure the child’s health care needs will be met even after a divorce or separation.