Income eligibility guidelines for diagnostic and treatment services available through North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) have increased due to changes in federal poverty levels. A family can earn more now and still qualify for services. Effective May 1, a family of four can earn up to $57,720 annually (or $4,810 monthly per household) and meet qualifying income requirements.
Funded by the federal Maternal and Child Health Block Grant, the HHS Special Health Services Unit focuses on improving the health and well-being of individuals with special health care needs and their families. The diagnostic and treatment services offered through the Special Health Services Financial Coverage Program help families pay for medical services for eligible children, youth and young adults from birth to age 21 who require specialty care to diagnose and treat chronic health conditions. Medical services include, but are not limited to, dental services, medications, therapy, nutrition services, laboratory tests, medical equipment and care coordination.
“About one in five children in North Dakota has a special health care need,” said Tina Feigitsch, claims and eligibility administrator. “Although many of these children may be covered by some type of health insurance, the Financial Coverage Program acts as a gap-filler for over 100 eligible medical conditions and promotes access to quality health care.”
To qualify for the Special Health Services Financial Coverage Program, a child must be a North Dakota resident and meet medical and financial guidelines. To determine if a child qualifies, families can contact the program at (800) 755-2714, email tfeigitsch@nd.gov or visit the Special Health Services page on hhs.nd.gov.