Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs Program (CYSHCN)
The Children with Special Health Care Needs program is a Federal and State funded Title V Maternal Child Health Bureau program that is offered in every county in Washington State.
In Washington State, an estimated 14%-18% of children and youth age 17 and younger have a special health care need. Families that have a child with special needs often face challenges with finding the specialized services their child may need.
Who is eligible for the CYSHCN Program
The CYSHCN Program promotes an integrated system of services for infants, children and youth ages Birth up to 18 years who are newly diagnosed with a complex health condition or are at risk for chronic physical, developmental, behavioral, or emotional conditions that require health and related services of a type or amount beyond what is generally needed.
Reasons for CYSHCN Public Health Nurse (PHN) Referrals
Our Public Health Nurses are knowledgeable about local supports and services and dedicated to helping families of Children and Youth with Special Heath Care Needs by providing the following services:
(This service is provided to families regardless of income and there is no charge to the family for PHN services)
- Care coordination with your child’s health care and other service providers
- Educate and counsel families about their child’s health condition
- Link families to a medical home, insurance and community programs and services including family support and health information
- Organize a network of services and providers
How to make a referral
Who can make a referral: parents, doctor offices, hospitals, community organizations.
Note: If you suspect child neglect or abuse, you should make a referral to Social Work. It is not appropriate to make a Public Health Nurse referral to assess abuse when that possibility has already been identified. It is appropriate to also make a PHN referral on these children, with a note that CPS referral has been made; the PHN will make every effort to coordinate with the CPS caseworker.
Online: Online Referral Form
Call, Fax or Mail referral information: CYSHCN Referral Form
FAX Referral: (509) 764-2813
Grant County Health District
Children with Special Health Care Needs
1038 W Ivy
Moses Lake WA 98837
Contact: Maria Vargas, CSHCN Coordinator
(509) 766-7960 ext. 19
Additional resources