Children's Special Services

About Children's Special Services (CSS)

Children's Special Services (CSS) is Tennessee's Title V Program designed to support children and youth with special health care needs (CYSHCN). CSS provides access to comprehensive medical care for children with physical disabilities from birth up to 21 years of age. To qualify, children must meet specific diagnostic and financial eligibility requirements. The CSS program acts as a payer of last resort, covering services only after other options have been exhausted.

For more information about your child’s eligibility for CSS, please call our office.

Diagnostic Eligibility

Children or youth under the age of 21 who have been diagnosed with a physical disability requiring medical, surgical, dental, or rehabilitative treatment are eligible for the CSS program. The program covers over 500 conditions, though the most common diagnoses include:

• Asthma
• Cardiac-related conditions
• Cerebral Palsy
• Congenital Hydrocephalus
• Cystic Fibrosis
• Diabetes
• Hearing Loss
• Obesity (above the 95th percentile)
• Seizure Disorders
• Sickle Cell Anemia

Services Offered

The CSS program provides a wide range of services to eligible children, including but not limited to:

• Diagnostic Evaluation
• Medical and Surgical Treatment
• Hospitalization
• Care Coordination
• Rehabilitation Services (Physical and Occupational Therapy)
• Medications
• Braces and Artificial Limbs
• Speech and Language Therapy
• Durable Medical Equipment
• Hearing Aids and Supplies
• Wheelchairs and Walkers
• Special Formula/Food
• Pharmacy Needs

Financial Eligibility

Eligibility for CSS is also based on family size and income level. The family's adjusted gross income must fall at or below 225% of the federal poverty level.