Children with cerebral palsy and other health conditions may be able to receive financial assistance from the state and federal government for their care.
In addition to these funds, families may also be able to pursue compensation for their child’s treatment and other expenses through a cerebral palsy lawsuit, which Sokolove Law may be able to help with.
Medicaid for Children With Cerebral Palsy
Children with birth injuries have unique health care needs. Without access to the proper medical services, they are at a higher risk of developing complications and illnesses related to their condition. Medicaid can help special needs children get the care they require to stay healthy and live happy, productive lives.
What Is Medicaid?
Medicaid is a federal and state program designed to help fund medical care for people with low income and limited resources. It covers certain disabled children ages 3-21, the elderly, pregnant women, blind individuals, and disabled adults.
Under Medicaid, a qualified child with cerebral palsy is fully covered for all services considered medically necessary by the child’s health care provider.
These services may include:
- Cerebral palsy treatment programs
- In-home nursing care
- Medications and medical supplies
- Psychological and behavioral services
- Transportation
Medicaid coverage also applies to certain communication devices designed for children with cerebral palsy and other impairments. The program does not, however, cover rehabilitation or educational services.
Does My Disabled Child Qualify for Medicaid Benefits?
Each state has its own specific income requirements for Medicaid eligibility. Your family must earn below a certain income level — which varies from state to state — to qualify for Medicaid coverage. In some cases, children who are classified as being “severely disabled” under the program can obtain Medicaid coverage regardless of the parent’s income.
You must also meet other criteria, such as being a U.S. citizen or lawfully admitted immigrant, which is based on the child’s status and not the parents’.
Medicaid Rights
You might want to consider Medicaid if your disabled child needs health care and your family’s income is low. If you aren’t sure whether or not your child qualifies for this type of coverage, you should complete an application. There is also a questionnaire that can help you determine which federal benefits programs your child may be eligible for.
By law, children with disabilities have certain rights under the Medicaid program. You and your child are entitled to:
- Receive a clear explanation of the benefits process
- Receive the assistance of a translator if necessary
- Apply for Medicaid benefits without a home address if you are homeless
- Be evaluated for possible retroactive benefits extending back three months
- Receive an Access card (proof of Medicaid coverage) immediately, if necessary
- Receive written notification and a hearing if benefits are denied or discontinued
- Appeal a denial or discontinuation of Medicaid coverage
- Receive benefits until an appeal is decided, if filed within 10 days of the notice
- Be treated with dignity and respect throughout the application process
Contact your local Medicaid office for information on eligibility criteria and how to apply for coverage for your child. Keep in mind, though, that Medicaid may not be your only resource for financial assistance.
Additional Sources of Financial Assistance for Cerebral Palsy
A cerebral palsy lawsuit may award compensation to families whose children have cerebral palsy that was caused by a medical professional’s negligent care. By contacting Sokolove Law, you can get a free, no-obligation legal review of your case to learn more about your potential legal options.
You also may be able to receive disability income through Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for children with cerebral palsy and other birth injuries.
File a Cerebral Palsy Lawsuit for Financial Compensation
As a national birth injury law firm, Sokolove Law has decades of experience representing families like yours in cerebral palsy cases resulting from a medical mistake.
Over the last 40+ years, our birth injury attorneys have secured over $905 Million for families impacted by birth injuries like cerebral palsy. We have a team of experienced registered nurses available who can listen to your concerns and help you understand what may have happened to your child.
Get a free case review or call (800) 995-1212 to learn more about your potential legal options and see if you may have a case.
