Navigating health care for children, especially those with special needs, can be complex. In Michigan, Children’s Special Health Care Services (CSHCS) provides crucial support. This program assists families in accessing necessary medical services for children with special health care needs. Understanding the enrollment process, associated fees, and available support is the first step towards leveraging these valuable services.
Understanding CSHCS Enrollment and Fees
To become a part of CSHCS, there is an annual enrollment fee. However, this fee is designed to be accessible and equitable for all families. The annual fee is waived for clients with Medicaid, MIChild, those under court-appointed guardianship, or children residing in foster care. For other families, the fee is calculated on a sliding scale, taking into account both family income and family size. Detailed information regarding the fee structure can be found in the Payment Agreement Guide. For enrolled families with a payment agreement, CSHCS offers the convenience of online payments through credit card or e-check at the pay place portal.
Application Process for CSHCS
The CSHCS application process begins with determining medical eligibility. A crucial step is the submission of a medical record, dated within one year of application, from your child’s specialist. This record should comprehensively detail your child’s health condition and proposed treatment plan. To facilitate this, your specialist will require your consent to share this protected health information with CSHCS. You can provide this permission by completing and submitting the Authorization to Disclose Protected Health Information form. Upon confirmation of your child’s medical eligibility, you will subsequently receive a complete enrollment application along with an Income Review / Payment Agreement form to finalize the process.
Need Assistance with Your CSHCS Application?
Applying for CSHCS and understanding the diagnostic criteria and support available can be overwhelming. If you require assistance with your application or have any questions, the CSHCS team is ready to help. You can reach out to your local CSHCS office at 231-724-6209 for direct support. Alternatively, you can send your inquiries via email to CSHCS@co.muskegon.mi.us. Further support and information are also available through the Family Center for Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs / Family Phone Line. They can be contacted at 800-359-3722 or through the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services CSHCS web page.
Share Your CSHCS Experience
Your feedback is invaluable in helping CSHCS improve its services. We encourage you to share your experiences with the program by completing a brief survey. Your insights are greatly appreciated and contribute to enhancing the program for other families.
