LANSING - Michigan has one of the best health care systems for children, according to a recent nationwide study. The Commonwealth Fund Report, titled U.S. Variations in Child Health System Performance: A State Scorecard, examines state-by-state information and evaluates how the health system is performing for children.

"It is our goal to ensure universal access to affordable health care to all of our citizens, so it is good news for Michigan families that kids are getting health care," said Governor Jennifer M. Granholm. "It is an honor for our state to be recognized has having one of the top health care systems for children in the nation."

The study focuses on 13 indicators of child health system performance including access, quality, costs, and the potential to lead healthy lives. In the report, Michigan is tied with Rhode Island ranking no. 3 for the best access to health care for children. The report notes that Michigan has the lowest uninsured rate for children in the country at 5.2 percent (130,000) meaning 94.8 percent (2.4 million children) are insured in Michigan.

"We are proud and pleased that Michigan's health care system for children ranks among the best in the country," said Janet Olszewski, director of the Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH). "Investing in our children's health is a top priority because they are our future leaders. While we still have plenty of work to do and there is always room for improvement, the results of this report are very encouraging."

The report also notes that Michigan is among seven states that are "national leaders in giving children access to care and ensuring high quality care." Michigan ranks no. 12 nationwide in overall performance, no. 15 in terms of quality and no. 17 in terms of equity. The report can be viewed at the Commonwealth Fund's Web site at www.commonwealthfund.org.