Children's Programs

If your child under 18 needs a wheelchair or other rehab equipment, and is not covered by insurance, you may want to investigate some of these sources of child-related insurance and information.

• State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) is a national organization that expands health coverage to uninsured children whose families earn too much for Medicaid but too little to afford private coverage. It is run by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).
  
  
• Child Health Plan Plus (CHP+) is a low-cost health insurance program under SCHIP for uninsured Colorado children ages 18 and under whose families earn or own too much to qualify for Medicaid but cannot afford private insurance. Call toll free 1-800.359.1991
  
  
• Insure Kids Now provides information on insurance for children. Call toll free 1-877-543-7669. This Web site and toll free number also provide information on Medicaid.
  
  
• Children's Health Insurance Issues has a lot of bureaucratic information, but does off some helpful links to other sites related to children's health and health insurance.
  
  
• U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is a federal organization that has a vast array of information and links related to insurance and healthcare for children.
  
  
• Developmental Disabilities Resource Center provides leading-edge services that create opportunities for people with developmental disabilities and their families to participate fully in the community. Call 303.233.3363 (Lakewood).
  
  The Children’s Home and Community Based Services Waiver (C-HCBS), and the Children’s Extensive Support Waiver (CES) are Medicaid Waiver Programs for children birth through 17 who meet specific eligibility criteria.

  C-HCBS provides Medicaid benefits to children who are at risk of hospitalization or nursing home placement. Children who have significant personal care, therapy, and/or medical needs may qualify. Applicants must be ineligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) due to excess parental income. Families may apply for this program through their local Community Centered Board (e.g., DDRC), County Human Services office, or any other Case Management Agency.

  CES provides Medicaid benefits and additional services and supports to children with the most intense medical or behavioral needs. In order to qualify, children must have 20-24 hour direct care needs as a result of significantly challenging behaviors and/or co-existing medical conditions. CES services include personal assistance, professional services, home modifications, assistive technology, specialized medical equipment and supplies, and community connection services. Families need to apply through their local Community Centered Board (e.g., DDRC).