Children And Youth With Special Health Care Needs

Resources for Families During COVID-19

Special needs children with complex medical needs could be at risk for COVID-19-related illnesses. Information and resources are available for families.

COVID-19 Information

Support and Resources


Children And Youth With Special Health Care Needs (CYSHCN) is a program that provides information as well as referrals to health services and community resources for children with special needs. This program also helps families apply for low or no-cost health insurance.

To be eligible for services, you must:

  • Be 21 or younger
  • Reside in New York City
  • Have been diagnosed with (or may have)
    • A serious or chronic health condition or disability
    • A physical condition
    • A developmental or intellectual condition
    • An emotional or behavioral condition

Services

Health Insurance Assistance and Service Referrals

The program can help you with:

  • Applying for low- or no-cost health insurance.
  • Finding free medical evaluations and low-cost health services in your community.
  • Locating medical providers who can examine your child and develop an individual care plan.
  • Finding referrals to medical specialists who can care for children with complex needs.

Community Support

  • Families can connect with support networks that understand the challenges of caring for children with special needs. For more information or for special requests for resources and support, call 347-396-4600 or email CYSHCN@health.nyc.gov.

Additional Resources

More Information