A new health initiative passed by Governor Mitch Daniels last year still has many people asking questions and wondering if they qualify. The Healthy Indiana Plan (HIP) is a program designed to provide health coverage for uninsured adult Hoosiers and reduce the state's high rate of smoking.

In January, the state started accepting applications for those interested in the program, but what about those who don't know if they qualify? "We're hosting a presentation to introduce the community to HIP," said Kelly Nissan, Director of Marketing, Community and Business Relations at St. Catherine Hospital. "This is an excellent opportunity for people to ask questions, find out who's covered and find out what the plan offers," she added.

On Tuesday, February 5th at 5:30 pm, St. Catherine Hospital in East Chicago will host a presentation that will be led by a representative of MDwise, one of two insurance plans associated with HIP. "It's a way for people to get answers in a personal setting," said Nissan, "And Lake County has some of the best candidates available for the program."

The presentation is free to the public, for advance registration is required. To register, call 219-836-3477. Enrollment applications will be available at the meeting. HIP is currently being accepted at all three hospitals of the Community Healthcare System: Community Hospital in Munster, St. Catherine Hospital in East Chicago and St. Mary Medical Center in Hobart.

HIP is financed by the 44 cent cigarette tax increase that took effect last July which officials estimate will result in 40,000 fewer youth smokers and 23,400 fewer adult smokers.