News Release

Affordable Care Act supports families of children with special health care needs

Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Kathleen Sebelius today announced $4.9 million in Affordable Care Act funding to support Family-to-Family Health Information Centers, primarily non-profit organizations run by and for families with children with special health care needs.

“These centers provide the information that families need to make health care decisions that are right for their children,” Secretary Sebelius said. “Family-to-Family Health Information Centers are a good investment, and have a measurable and positive impact on families, and communities.”

Created in 2005, the centers are state-wide, family-led organizations that provide information, education, training, outreach, and peer support to families of children and youth with special health care needs and the professionals who serve them.

The centers are staffed by trained family leaders who have children with special health care needs, and expertise in navigating federal, state and local public and private health care systems. HHS’ Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) oversees the centers.

“The centers benefit all families and especially those with the greatest needs,” said HRSA Administrator Mary K. Wakefield, Ph.D., R.N.  “They reach out to families and help them and their children thrive.”

The centers have served hundreds of thousands of families and health care providers. Today’s funding will support 51 centers, one in each state and the District of Columbia.  Each grantee will receive $95,700.  A list of awards can be found at www.hrsa.gov/about/news/2012tables/120523familyvoices.html

For more information on the program, and other HRSA maternal and child health programs, visit http://www.mchb.hrsa.gov/.

Information on the Affordable Care Act can be found at www.HealthCare.gov.

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Last revised: May 23, 2012