Parenting a child can be financially draining even under typical circumstances. When you have a child with a birth injury, the financial effects can be devastating. The costs of therapies, doctor visits, assistive equipment, home modifications, and respite care can easily add up to hundreds of thousands of dollars. However, there is help out there for families coping with birth injuries.
Medicaid
Medicaid benefits may be available regardless of the family’s income. Medicaid provides coverage to disabled children and will cover most major health expenses. Individuals with medical bills may be eligible for Medicaid even if their income and resources are above the allowable levels. Medicaid covers a wide range of expenses including doctor visits, treatments, medications, therapies, and equipment such as wheelchairs. You can apply for Medicaid through the New York State of Health marketplace.
Medicaid Waiver Programs
Medicaid waiver programs, such as New York’s Care at Home program, offer families assistance even if they would not normally qualify for Medicaid. These programs waive parent income when considering eligibility. Medicaid waiver programs cover things that would not usually be paid for by Medicaid, including case management expenses, respite care, and home and vehicle modifications. New York State currently has eight waiver programs that accept children. For more information of waiver programs, check out the New York State Department of Health’s Resource Center.
Child Health Plus
New York State’s Child Health Plus (CHP) program provides medical insurance to children who do not qualify for Medicaid. The program provides children with free or affordable healthcare based on their household income. You can apply for CHP benefits through the New York State of Health marketplace.
Social Security
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a program administered by the federal Social Security Administration. A child under 18 who is found disabled may be eligible for benefits. The parents’ income is taken into account when determining eligibility, but not all sources of income are considered. Some conditions automatically qualify as a disability for SSI purposes including cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, and severe mental disability in children 7 and under. In New York State, recipients of SSI are also eligible for Medicaid. For more information about SSI check out the Disability Starter Kit.
If your child was the victim of a birth injury, you should have an experienced attorney evaluate your case. At Bonina & Bonina, P.C., we have over 50 years of experience helping New York families. Contact us online or call us at 1-888-MED-LAW1 to schedule your free consultation. Home and hospital visits available. Se habla espaňol.