HHS announces increase in qualifying income levels for children and youth with special health care needs

BISMARCK, N.D. – Income eligibility guidelines for diagnostic and treatment services available through North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) Special Health Services Unit (SHS) have increased based on changes in the federal poverty levels. The change increases the amount of income a family can earn and still qualify for services. Effective May 1, 2023, a family of four can earn up to $55,500 annually (or $4,625 monthly per household) and still meet income eligibility requirements.

Funded by the Federal Maternal and Child Health Block Grant, SHS promotes services that improve the health and well-being of individuals with special health care needs and their families. Diagnostic and treatment services through the SHS 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 their chronic health conditions. Medical services include, but are not limited to, dental services, medications, therapy, nutrition services, laboratory tests, medical equipment and care coordination.

“Approximately one in five children in North Dakota has a special health care need,” said Tina Feigitsch, SHS claims and eligibility administrator with HHS. “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 SHS 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 SHS office at (800) 755-2714, email tfeigitsch@nd.gov or visit hhs.nd.gov/health/children/special-health-services.

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