The Children's Medical Program provides medical and surgical care to children with chronic or disabling conditions. The service is available to state residents up to 20 years of age.
If your child was born with a disabling condition, or developed a disability or chronic illness, we may be able to help. The Children's Medical program can organize care for your child's condition, provide equipment and drugs, and arrange for physical, occupational and other therapies. If your child has a special health care need, contact us for information or referral sources.
| Who can qualify | Services | How to apply | Resources | About the program |
Who can qualify
Mississippi residents from birth to age 20 are eligible. You must qualify, based on family income, family size, and estimated cost of treatment. We cover the following conditions and more:
Eligible Conditions
- Spina bifida
- Cerebral palsy
- Cleft palate
- Seizure disorders
- Cystic fibrosis, sickle cell anemia, and hemophilia
(through special programs) - Hydrocephalus
- Orthopedic problems (other than from accidents)
- Congenital heart problems requiring surgery
- Intestinal or urinary defects requiring surgery
Services we provide
- Pediatric specialty care (outpatient and inpatient)
- Braces and other durable medical equipment
- Some drugs, such as seizure medications, through the State Public Health Pharmacy
- Dental corrections and speech therapy for some conditions
- Genetic screening referral and followup
- Pediatric social workers for evaluation and referral to other community resources
- Nutrition services
Except for emergencies, services must be pre-approved through the Children's Medical Program
Services not provided
Services are not covered for:
- Illnesses such as colds and flu
- Child care for children who are not sick
- Injuries
- Non-surgical care related to premature birth
- Allergies
- Malignancies (except when reconstructive surgery is needed)
- Mental, behavioral and emotional disorders
How to apply
When you apply at your local health department, you will need the documents below.
Application Requirements
- A statement with specific diagnosis, requested services, and referral from a physician, if available.
- Copies of pertinent medical reports about your child's problem
- Complete and accurate financial information
- Names, relations and ages of all household members
- Private insurance or Medicaid card, if applicable
- Signature of parent or legal guardian
Further information and resources
Cystic Fibrosis, Sickle Cell and Hemophilia
Other Birth Defects
Mississippi Organizations
- Mississippi Hemophilia Foundation
- Cure Sickle Cell of Mississippi
- Sickle Cell Clinics in Mississippi
- Cystic Fibrosis of Mississippi
- Epilepsy Foundation of Mississippi
- Mississippi Kidney Foundation
- March of Dimes, Mississippi Chapter
Services, Advocacy and Assistance
- USM Institute for Disability Studies
Assistance for children and adults with disabilities - LIFE of Mississippi
Independence and community involvement for people with disabilities - Mississippi Coalition for Citizens with Disabilities
Disability-related information and services referral - ARC of Mississippi
Advocacy for citizens of all ages with cognitive, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and their families - Disability Rights Mississippi
Protection and advocacy for individuals with disabilities - Families as Allies for Children's Mental Health
Services for children with mental health needs - Project START
Assistive technology for people with disabilities
Get in touch — find out more
To apply to the Children's Medical Program, or to learn more about it, contact your local health department office, or call 1-800-844-0898 toll-free. In Jackson, call (601) 987-3965.
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