Wisconsin currently lacks a coordinated statewide network for families and service providers of children with special health needs (CSHN) who specifically seek information related to health care coverage and access.

Although pieces of the puzzle exist, the big picture is incomplete. In the absence of such a network, action to address problems facing CSHN related to health care coverage and access is fragmented and often ineffective. Solving some problems may require only better information and support, which the network can achieve. Other problems, such as insurance denials, limited benefits, terminations, poor coordination among coverage providers, and lack of access to appropriate care providers are policy issues that are best addressed through the united action of a broad and representative network.

ABC for Health, Inc. recognizes these needs and through the Covering Kids with Special Needs (CKSN) project is working to:

• increase health care access for children with special health needs by decreasing the number of un/underinsured;
• develop a collaborative and supportive network for parents, community professionals and policymakers; and
• promote public policy strategies and initiatives to decrease the number of uninsured children with special health needs and increase the coverage of those children who are underinsured.

The mission of CKSN is to develop a multi-faceted approach to ensuring adequate health care access to and coverage of CSHN in Wisconsin. Working in conjunction with CSHN stakeholders, CKSN will further develop the knowledge and expertise of parents, advocates, providers and policy makers in successfully navigating and effectively managing the health care systems that serve CSHN.

The CKSN project takes a multi-faceted approach to reaching its objectives of ensuring health care access and coverage for CSHN. The goals of CKSN are to:

We invite family members, advocates, service providers and policy makers to work with CKSN through the regional and local HealthWatch coalitions. As a member of this project, you can participate in these committees, trainings, and policy initiatives to help CKSN reach its mission of ensuring adequate health care access and coverage for CSHN. Your participation in meetings is very valuable, as you can help us identify the issues related to health care access and coverage that matter most to you.

ABC for Health offers numerous trainings to HealthWatch groups relating to health care coverage and access. Multiple trainings fall under categories including Insurance, Managed Care, Medicaid, and Social Security Disability Programs. In addition to these trainings, ABC staff has the experience and expertise to offer trainings on many other issues related to navigating the health care system and children with special health needs. To review the list of trainings ABC has to offer, click here.