Children and Youth With Special Health Care Needs
The Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs (CYSHCN) Program connects families to health services and community resources for children and young adults with special needs.
Services are provided at no cost, and referrals are to no- or low-cost programs. All services are provided regardless of immigration status. Services are available in your language through staff or an interpreter.
The CYSHCN program serves children and young adults who:
- Are age 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
Contact Us
For more information on services, contact:
- Phone: 347-396-4600
- Email: cyshcn@health.nyc.gov
- Fill out the program referral form
Upcoming Events
December 18th, 2025
Promoting Health Insurance for All New Yorkers Webinar
Join us to stay informed about health insurance policies and learn about enrollment services for parents, providers, and children and youth with special health care needs!
- Presenter: Fatema Lovely & Rachel Schwartz
- Time and location: 11-12pm via Zoom
- Session highlights:
- Health insurance policy updates
- Overview of the Health Department's Office of Health Insurance Services program
- Connecting with a Health Department enrollment counselor
- Q&A and practical guidance for families and providers
December 19th, 2025
Holiday Safety & Adaptation Strategies for Families Webinar
Join us to stay informed about holiday safety and learn about adaptation strategies for parents, caregivers, and children and youth with disabilities.
- Presenter: Michelle Korn, OTR/L, BCBA, NYS LBA
- Time and location: 11-12pm via Zoom
- Session highlights:
- Practical strategies to support children during holiday routines and events
- Tools for reducing sensory overload, managing behavior, and creating flexibility
- Guidance for supporting siblings, planning ahead, and easing family stress
- How to use visual supports, schedules, and social stories to prepare children for holidays changes
Closed captioning will be provided for these webinars.
Event Videos
View recordings from past events and forums:
- Autism Acceptance Month Forum (April 4)
- Caregiver Resource Forum (May 9)
Additional Resources
- Children And Youth With Special Health Care Needs Program Brochure (PDF)
Other Languages: Español | Русский | 繁體中文 | 简体中文 | Kreyòl ayisyen | বাংলা | اردو - Community Partner Letter (PDF)
Other Languages: Español | Русский | 繁體中文 | 简体中文 | Kreyòl ayisyen | বাংলা | اردو - New York State Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs Program
- New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities: Front Door
- Parent to Parent of NYS