ARIZONA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH SERVICES – Bureau of Women’s and Children’s Health, Office for Children with Special Health Care Needs (OCSHCN)

MISSION: 

To continuously improve comprehensive systems of care that enhances the health, future and quality of life for children and youth, their families and the communities in which they live. To maximize the health of children and youth with special health care needs by building partnerships with families and professionals, both public and private, so that CYSHCN have the opportunity to reach their full potential.

AGENCY SELF-DESCRIPTION:

OCSHCN works to promote and improve systems of care for children and youth with special health care needs (CYSHCN), their families, and the communities in which they live. OCSHCN maintains its critical Title V role by assisting families in accessing appropriate care and services for CYSHCN; promoting the increased involvement of families and youth within OCSHCN, other ADHS programs and other child-serving agencies; providing training on best practices related to medical home, cultural competence, pediatric to adult transition and family centered care; funding contracts for respite and palliative care, overnight stays that enable families to stay near their hospitalized CYSHCN and increased inclusion of CYSHCN in community-based wellness activities and health advocacy for their families.