Children’s Special Health Care Services (CSHCS) is a program within the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. CSHCS helps pay for medical care and treatment for qualifying diagnoses until age 21. Children with an eligible cystic fibrosis or coagulation defect diagnosis can receive coverage past age 21. Eligibility is NOT based on income. It is based on the medical diagnosis, level of severity, and need for treatment. Families can have private insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid and CSHCS coverage at the same time. Cost for the program is determined by family size and income. This cost for the program is waived for individuals who qualify for Medicaid or MIChild.
CSHCS may be able to help:
- Cover the cost of appointments with medical specialists
- Pay for specialized medical equipment related to the CSHCS qualifying medical condition
- Pay for medications related to the CSHCS qualifying medical condition
- Coordinate services and help connect families to local community resources
- Assist with travel and lodging expenses for treatment related to the CSHCS qualifying medical diagnosis
What does CSHCS NOT pay for?
- Primary care
- Well-child care check-ups
- Mental health needs
- Autism
Contact us!
For more information, please call the Ionia County Health Department at (616) 527-5341, or the Family Phone Line at 1-800-359-3722 (TDD 1-800-788-7889). Visit the website at www.michigan.gov/cshcs where you will find links that will provide you with information on CSHCS and the Family Center for Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs, the parent-directed section of CSHCS, and the services that they can offer you.
Children’s Special Health Care Newsletter
Family Rights and Responsibilities