Medi-Cal

Medi-Cal is California's Medicaid program, providing comprehensive health coverage to eligible low-income individuals and families, including children with special needs. It plays a crucial role in ensuring that children with disabilities receive the necessary medical, behavioral, and developmental services they need to thrive. Comprehensive Medical Care Access to doctor visits, specialists, hospital stays, prescription medications, and dental services for eligible children. Therapies and Rehabilitative Services Coverage for essential therapies such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and behavioral health services. Durable Medical Equipment & Supplies Assistance with obtaining durable medical equipment, assistive technology, and necessary medical supplies tailored to individual needs. Care Coordination & Case Management Support for coordinating various services, helping families navigate the healthcare system and advocate for their child's needs. Go Back to Main Page

Regional Center

Regional Centers are non-profit private corporations that contract with the California Department of Developmental Services (DDS) to provide services and supports to individuals with developmental disabilities. They serve as a local point of entry to a comprehensive system of services and supports for eligible individuals and their families. Eligibility Determination & Assessment Conducting comprehensive assessments to determine eligibility for services and identify individual needs for children with developmental disabilities. Service Coordination & Case Management Assisting families in navigating the service system, developing individualized program plans (IPPs), and coordinating all necessary services for their child. Early Intervention Services Providing crucial services for infants and toddlers (birth to three years old) who are at risk of developmental delays or have established developmental disabilities. Community-Based Services & Supports Arranging and funding a wide range of services, including various therapies, respite care, behavioral supports, and programs for independent living skills. Go Back to Main Page

CCS (California Children's Services)

California Children's Services (CCS) is a state program that provides comprehensive medical care and case management services for children and youth under 21 years old with certain serious medical conditions. It aims to ensure that eligible children receive necessary diagnostic, treatment, and medical support to improve their health and well-being. Specialized Medical Care Access to a network of pediatric specialists, hospitals, and medical centers for eligible conditions. Diagnostic Services Funding for comprehensive tests and evaluations to accurately diagnose CCS-eligible medical conditions. Treatment & Therapies Coverage for surgeries, medications, medical equipment, and essential therapies (e.g., physical, occupational, speech) related to the eligible condition. Medical Case Management Coordination of services by a dedicated CCS case manager to help families navigate the complex healthcare system. Conditions Covered Includes conditions like congenital heart defects, cerebral palsy, cystic fibrosis, certain genetic diseases, severe burns, and orthopedic conditions. Go Back to Main Page

IHSS (In-Home Supportive Services)

In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) is a California program that provides personal care and domestic services to eligible low-income aged, blind, or disabled individuals, including children with disabilities. The program aims to help these individuals remain safely in their own homes and avoid institutionalization by providing a range of in-home support services. Personal Care Services Assistance with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and feeding for children who cannot perform these tasks independently. Protective Supervision Monitoring children who are non-self-directing and at risk of injury or harm if left unattended, ensuring their safety and well-being at home. Paramedical Services Help with medical services that are normally provided by a medical professional, but can be delegated and performed by a trained IHSS provider, such as administering medication or managing medical equipment. Domestic Services & Meal Prep Support with essential household tasks like cleaning, laundry, and meal preparation, enabling a safe and healthy living environment for the child and family. Go Back to Main Page

School District

School districts play a vital role in providing special education services to children with disabilities, ensuring they receive a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE). These services are designed to meet each child's unique needs and support their academic and developmental growth. Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) Developing personalized plans outlining educational goals, services, accommodations, and modifications tailored to each student's unique needs and learning style. Related Services Providing support services such as speech-language pathology, occupational therapy, physical therapy, counseling, transportation, and school health services to help students benefit from special education. Specialized Instruction & Accommodations Offering adapted curriculum, specialized teaching methods, assistive technology, and classroom accommodations to facilitate learning and participation in the general education setting as much as appropriate. Transition Services Preparing older students for life after high school through vocational training, independent living skills, and post-secondary education planning, integrated into their IEP. Go Back to Main Page

SSI (Supplemental Security Income)

SSI (Supplemental Security Income) is a federal program that provides monthly cash assistance to low-income individuals who are aged, blind, or disabled, including children with disabilities. It helps cover basic needs like food, clothing, and shelter. Monthly Financial Assistance Provides crucial financial support to help families cover basic needs like food, clothing, and shelter for children with severe disabilities. Disability Definition Child must meet the Social Security Administration's strict definition of disability, meaning a severe medical condition that significantly limits daily activities. Income and Resource Limits Eligibility is also based on the family's income and resources falling below specific federal thresholds. Medicaid Eligibility Receiving SSI often automatically qualifies the child for Medicaid (Medi-Cal in California), providing access to vital healthcare services. Go Back to Main Page