Crisis Services
ASERT does not offer crisis services through our Resource Center. If you or someone you love is experiencing mental health distress or thoughts of suicide please call or text 988 for support.
Medical Assistance
For a Child Under Age 18
Medical Assistance has the greatest coverage of medical and mental health services for persons under 18. It is the ONLY insurance that always covers Behavioral Health Rehabilitation Services (BHRS). Medical Assistance can be a child’s only insurance or it can be used with another insurance plan.
Is my child eligible for Medical Assistance?
Not ALL children with a certain diagnosis will qualify for Medical Assistance. However, many children with severe disabilities will qualify for Medical Assistance, regardless of their parent’s income.
A child must:
- Be under the age of 18
- Meet the Social Security Disability guidelines.
The Application Process
You will need:
- A copy of your child’s birth certificate
- Child’s social security card
- Documentation of child’s disability or condition
Remember to document how a disability or condition affects the child’s physical and neurological (walking, talking, feeding, etc.), sensory (ability to see or hear), cognitive (ability to understand), and psychological functioning (ability to have friendships, avoiding dangerous behavior or situations).
How to apply
You can fill out an application on paper or you can apply online.
- For a paper application call Healthy Kids Hotline at 1-800-986-5437 Return completed form to your County
- Apply online
This information was developed by the Autism Services, Education, Resources, and Training Collaborative (ASERT). For more information, please contact ASERT at 877-231-4244 or info@PAautism.org. ASERT is funded by the Bureau of Supports for Autism and Special Populations, PA Department of Human Services.