What
does HEALTH CARE mean to a young person who has special health care
needs?
Many have never thought
about it, because someone else usually handled these issues.
As a child, many were covered either on their parents health
care insurance plans, or through public assistance programs
and perhaps even a combination. Health services were often
received in a pediatric office or specialist. But what happens
after the child turns 18 and is now legally an adult? How
and when should youth learn about these things?
These are complex issues that take time to learn. Youth
must be given the opportunity to be taught skills and receive
support to make the most informed decisions based on accurate
and timely information. There are no quick and easy solutions.
- ACCESS TO CARE - Will they need to change doctors once
they are adults? Do they have to change doctors?
- WELLNESS - In addition to meeting their health issues
that directly relate to their special health care needs,
are their other health issues being addressed? (preventive
care, general check-ups or immunizations?)
- PAYING FOR CARE - Can youth stay on their family health
care plan? Should they apply for SSI/Medicaid? If they
work, how does this affect health care coverage?
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