Children & Youth with Special Healthcare Needs

What We Do

The Andrew County Health Department is committed to supporting children and youth with special healthcare needs (CYSHCN) and their families. Our mission is to provide access to resources, services, and programs that empower children to thrive, while helping families navigate their unique journeys with confidence and care.

Who We Serve

We serve children and youth, from birth to age 21, who have chronic physical, developmental, behavioral, or emotional conditions. These conditions require health and related services that go beyond those generally required by children. The CYSHCN Program helps these individuals access vital medical, diagnostic, and treatment services.

Our Services Include:

• Resource Connection
  We provide guidance to local, state, and national programs tailored to your child's needs, including financial aid, therapy services, and educational support.
• Care Coordination
  Our team assists in coordinating medical, educational, and social services to ensure your child receives comprehensive, well-rounded care.
• Advocacy and Support
  We empower families through advocacy efforts and support networks, ensuring that every child receives the care they need to reach their full potential.
• Health Screenings and Referrals
  Early identification of health concerns, with referrals to specialists for timely intervention and care.
  

Eligibility

To qualify for services, participants must meet the following criteria:

• Be a Missouri resident.
• Be between birth and age 21.
• Have a special health care need such as cerebral palsy, cystic fibrosis, cleft lip/palate, hearing disorders, and more.
• Meet the financial eligibility guidelines (family income at or below 185% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines).

Service Coordination and Funding

The CYSHCN Program provides:

• Service Coordination: This is available for all participants, regardless of financial status. It includes outreach, assessment, referral, and family support.
• Funding for Medically Necessary Services: Limited funding is available for diagnostic and treatment services for families who meet financial guidelines. This may include doctor visits, therapy services, medications, specialized equipment, and more.

The program acts as a payer of last resort and all third-party liabilities must be exhausted before accessing CYSHCN funding.

Partnering with Families

We work together with families to provide holistic care and support. Our goal is to help children with special healthcare needs reach their fullest potential, while ensuring families have the resources and guidance they need to succeed.

How to Access Support

If you have a child or youth with special healthcare needs, we are here to assist. Contact the Andrew County Health Department to learn more about available programs and resources tailored to your family’s needs.

Contact Us Today

Call us at (816) 324-3139 or visit our office during business hours to connect with our team and explore the support we can provide for your family.

Together, We Build Brighter Futures

Let’s work together to ensure every child in Andrew County has the opportunity to grow, learn, and thrive.

For additional information, please refer to the Children and Youth with Special Healthcare Needs Program PDF.

Additional Services