2003 Technical Assistance to States, State Advisory Committees and Families Family-to-Family Health Care Information and Education Centers
Donna Gore-Olsen
Executive Director
4755 Kingsway Drive, Suite 105
Indianapolis, IN 46205
3172578683
donnagoreolsen@aol.com
Subcontractor(s)
None.
Children with special health care needs (CSHCN) and their caregivers.
Over the past 10 years, Indiana has expanded its use of Medicaid to pay for services for children with disabilities and long-term health care needs. This has been accomplished through the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) and development of new home and community based services waiver programs. To address the information needs of families of CSHCN, the Indiana Parent Information Network (IPIN) established The Indiana Family-to-Family Health Information and Education Center to (1) make information and materials available online; (2) to establish two Parent Liaisons in two state regions; and (3) plan and conduct training statewide on health care financing issues.
Working with a web design consultant, IPIN will expand and improve its current website by updating its online resource directory, responding to individual inquiries via the Internet, and providing downloadable materials. To place staff in regional sites, an advisory committee will help IPIN identify (1) target regions; (2) regional staff who are respected by families and professionals in their communities; (3) options for co-location with other community agencies or organizations; (4) critical issues facing families; and (5) possible clinic and/or hospital sites for partnerships to meet families' information, support, and education needs.
The Indiana Family-to-Family Health Information and Education Center will (1) improve access to accurate, timely information on health care financing options; (2) support both families and professionals through medical homes in local communities; and (3) provide additional opportunities for education and training for both parents and professionals. The advisory committee will help the project maintain links with other family-directed organizations, assure communication with state agencies and others who make or implement policies affecting families of CSHCN, and help identify emerging issues that are affecting these families.