About CYSHCN

CYSHCN are children who have or are at increased risk for chronic physical, developmental, behavioral, or emotional conditions. They also require health and related services of a type or amount beyond that required by children generally.  

According to our National Survey of Children’s Health (NSCH), in our country:

• About 14 million children under 18 years old (19%) have a special healthcare need
• 25% of homes had one or more children with a special healthcare need
• CYSHCN are more likely to live in poverty, be non-Hispanic Black, and have public insurance than non-CYSHCN

The CYSHCN Section promotes these six indicators of a coordinated, comprehensive, family-centered systems of services including:

• Children and youth are screened early and continuously
• CYSHCN receive a medical home model of care that is patient-centered, coordinated, comprehensive, and ongoing
• Community-based services are organized so families can use them easily
• CYSHCN receive services necessary to make transitions to adult life, including healthcare
• Families have adequate insurance and funding to pay for services they need
• Families of CYSHCN are partners in decision-making at all levels of care, from direct care to the organizations that serve them.