Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs are defined by the Maternal and Child Health Bureau as those who have or are at increased risk for a chronic physical, developmental, behavioral, or emotional condition and who also require health and related services of a type or amount beyond that required by children generally.
Personal & Family Health > Healthy Kids
Children & Youth with Special Health Care Needs (CYSHCN)
Children & Youth with Special Health Care Needs (CYSHCN)
Who are Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs (CYSHCN)?
Examples include:
- Congenital heart defects
- Cleft lip/cleft palate
- Type I Diabetes
- Cystic Fibrosis
- Developmental disabilities like autism
- Many others
Who can help your family find resources and navigate the healthcare system?
Navigating CYSHCN systems can be challenging. Here is a list of organizations who can provide resource navigation for your family:
Boost/Parent to Parent
Community Action Center
CHAS - Latah Community Health
For Medicaid/Apple Health:
If you are on Medicaid/Apple Health, your health insurance plan may have case management available. Call the Member Services Department, let them know you have a child with special needs and are seeking case management support.
- Coordinated Care
- Community Health Plan of Washington
- Molina
- United Health Care
- Wellpoint
Resources
Medicaid/Apple Health
Apple Health is the name for Medicaid in Washington State. Apple Health is free or low-cost health insurance coverage for those who qualify. Apple Health is available year-round. You can apply for Apple Health at any time. If you have private insurance and you are within a certain income threshold, your child with special needs may qualify for Medicaid as secondary insurance.
To learn more, apply for Apple Health, or to get connected with a resource navigator visit Washington Health Plan Finder.
Ask your resource navigator for additional assistance.
DDA
The Washington State Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) provides services for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities. DDA is responsible for administering services and supports to children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Who should apply?
People who reside in WA State with qualifying conditions, including:
- Developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, autism
Where can I learn more?
Ask your resource navigator for additional assistance.
SSI
SSI provides monthly cash payments to help meet the basic needs of children who have a physical or mental disability or who are blind. If you care for a child or teenager with a disability, and have limited income and savings or other resources, your child may be eligible for SSI.
Where can I learn more?
- Northwest Access Fund offers people with disabilities resources, customized loans, financial coaching, and more. Northwest Access Fund offers monthly classes led by a Certified Benefits Planner and provides an overview of the SSI application process.
- Benefit U
Ask your resource navigator for additional assistance.
ESIT
Early intervention is intended for infants and toddlers (birth until their third birthday) who have a developmental delay or disability. Eligibility is determined by evaluating the child (with parental consent) to see if the child has a delay in development or a disability.
Where can I learn more?
Ask your resource navigator for additional assistance.
Autism Resources
The Arc of Washington State has been a leader in the development of services and programs for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities of all ages and in providing support to their families. They advocate for the rights and full participation of all people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Along with our network of members and chapters, we support and empower individuals and families; connect and inform individuals and families; improve support and service systems; influence public policy; increase public awareness; and inspire inclusive communities.
Where can I learn more?
Ask your resource navigator for additional assistance.
Helpful Questions
What are helpful questions to ask a resource navigator?
- What services are available for my child with [child's disability/needs] in our area? What services are available in our state?
- What are the eligibility requirements for these services?
- What resources are available to help me manage the challenges and stressors of parenting a child with special needs? Are there support groups I can connect with?
- How can I best advocate for my child's needs within the school, healthcare, and social systems?
- What is the process for obtaining a special education evaluation for my child?
- Are there any specific resources in our area that would be helpful for my child and our family?
Documents You May Need
Photo ID Card
e.g. passport card, driver’s license, enhanced ID card (EID)
You and Your Child’s SS Cards
Proof of Income
e.g. pay stub or tax information
Health Insurance Information
e.g. insurance card or policy