Tool kit helps parents nag kids online to get insurance

PROVIDENCE — HealthSource RI launched a new campaign Tuesday aimed at getting uninsured young adults to sign up for a health care plan.

It's encouraging parents to use social media to nag their kids to sign up.

"Young adults use social media daily to find out the news of the day," said Andres Amador. "And they mostly use Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or Snapchat to look for a date or to share pictures and videos. So this sign-up campaign targets these social media sites."

It's called the Nag Tool Kit and it's accessible from any computer or your smartphone. It teaches parents how to send Snapchat videos, become a match on Tinder, connect on OK Cupid, tweet at them, or send Vine videos.

According to the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services, 1 in 5 young adults is uninsured.

"It could be effective, then the ends could justify the means," said Jean Bonnyman.

Some parents say if it really came down to it, they aren't opposed to nagging their children if they aren't getting the picture.

However, some children hope they'd stick with a more old-fashioned approach.

"I feel like it's unnecessary. (My mom) could just tell me in person," said Helen Bonnyman.