An Introduction to Financing Care for CYSHCN
According to the National Survey of Children with Special Health Care Needs, approximately 12% of CYSHCN experienced gaps in insurance coverage during the year prior to the survey and many more were underinsured. Nearly a third of families have to give up work to care for their CYSHCN. Innovative practices tested in other states are often not replicated elsewhere because of a lack of information and resources.

Thus, the national goal:
“Families of children with special health care needs (CSHCN) will have access to adequate public and/or private insurance to pay for the services they need.” –

Healthy People 2010

Who are Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs?
A definition developed by the Maternal and Child Health Bureau.

The Healthy People 2010 National Agenda and the National Centers

Stakeholder Groups
The Catalyst Center has identified a list of groups that have an important role in shaping access to comprehensive health coverage for CYSHCN.