Children and youth with special health care needs

We ensure that children and youth with special health care needs have the opportunity to grow, learn and develop to their highest individual potential. The vision that guides our work is: Thriving families supported by proactive, integrated systems that adapt to meet needs.

Children and youth with special health care needs (CYSCHN) priority work

• Learn more about the FY 2021-25 Maternal and Child Health Priorities.

Data and evaluation

• Recent Colorado and national data, including maternal and child health performance measures, and other measures of interest for the Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs population.

HCP Program

• The HCP Program is a care coordination program for children and youth with special health care needs. HCP works with partners and local public health agencies to connect families to resources, provide care coordination, and improve access to pediatric specialty care.
• HCP provides information and resources for families of children and youth with special health care needs. *HCP does not provide emergency care.

Emergency, medical, mental, or emotional concerns

• If you or your child are having a medical emergency, please call 911 or seek emergency care. 
• 988 Colorado Mental Health Line (988) is a service that connects people in Colorado to trained crisis specialists offering compassionate mental health, emotional, and substance use support via call, text, and chat.  

For medical refills or concerns

• Please connect with your pharmacy and/or your primary care provider. 

Free Nurse Advice Lines

• The Health First Colorado Free Nurse Advice Line is just for Health First Colorado (Colorado’s Medicaid program) members and you can call it 24-hours a day, 7 days a week. Help is available in both English and Spanish. If you are not feeling well but are not sure if you need to go to the doctor, call the Nurse Advice Line at 1-800-283-3221.
• The ParentSmart Healthline™ | Children's Hospital Colorado connects you with a registered pediatric nurse. ParentSmart is there for you 24/7, providing access pediatric experts and peace of mind. Experienced pediatric nurses provide telephone triage and in-depth information on numerous pediatric topics. Callers are offered support and education based on pediatrician-approved guidelines. ParentSmart also provides information on community resources and can help you find a reputable physician in your area. Call 720-777-0123 or 1-855-543-4636 (KID-INFO).

Reporting suspected child abuse and neglect

• The presence of a single sign does not mean that child maltreatment is occurring in a family. However, it may be necessary to take a closer look at the situation when these signs appear repeatedly or in combination. Trust your gut instinct and call CO4KIDS at 844-CO-4-Kids if you are concerned for the safety and well-being of a child or youth.