Children with Special Health Care Needs
The Children with Special Health Care Needs (CSHCN) program is funded through Title V of the Social Security Act, Maternal and Child Health. Some states also use private donations to augment the funds. The purpose of the program is to develop programs to promote the health of children with chronic illnesses, developmental disabilities, sensory impairments and other special health care needs. States have the flexibility to develop their own programs and eligibility criteria in order to provide the needed services that are lacking in state programs. The funding is used to provide health related services, equipment and support that are not currently available through the family’s health plan or state services. For example, the funds might be used to build a ramp, for adaptive recreation equipment, or an evaluation at a specialty clinic. Each state decides what they will offer based on their states’ current services and the gaps in health care.
For more information go to these websites:
- What is Title V and How Can it Help You?: This article explains the purpose and scope of the Children with Special Health Care Needs program that is funded through Title V of the Social Security Act.
- Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs: This web page is part of the National Center on Cultural Competence and focuses on family centered and culturally competent practices used by the program.
- State CSHCN program locator: Locate CSHCN programs in your state.
