Infant Toddler Development Training
Module 6, Lesson 1

Financial Constraints and Resources

The decrease in infant mortality rates has resulted in an increased morbidity rate that is now impacting the financial picture of the health care industry. Many young children have some type of chronic illness. Approximately ten percent (10%) are classified as disabled. This has created financial concerns and constraints for how to provide care within budgetary guidelines. Resources have needed to adjust and plan accordingly.

Managed Care and Other Insurance

The state agency for children with special health care needs is Children's Medical Services (CMS) which is a division of the Department of Health. CMS is a managed care organization that provides care for children birth – 21 years with chronic medical conditions who meet financial criteria. Through CMS, care is provided for children with Medicaid and others under a share of cost arrangement. Managed Care Organizations, such as CMS, became popular around the 1980's. They limit the coverage of medical expenses by limiting the services they will cover. The rationale is cost containment and efficiency while also maintaining quality of care.

Florida, in recent years, developed a program for insurance coverage for families of children who cannot afford insurance. This program is Florida KidCare.

Agency for Persons with Disabilities and Other Resources

The ITDS should provide families who may qualify with information about the Agency for Persons with Disabilities (formerly Developmental Services). Even though a child under age 3 will be put on a waiting list due to the large numbers of families in need of support, the information should still be provided. Additionally, the ITDS can provide the family with information about Medicaid and also the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program for children with disabilities who meet financial eligibility. Information about these programs is available by visiting the appropriate website at the end of this lesson.

Why is it important for the ITDS to share information about the Agency for Persons with Disabilities?

What other financial resources can the ITDS share with families who have children with developmental disabilities?

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