Although uncommon, Michigan birth injuries can lead to a lifetime of health and medical problems. Like children everywhere in the country, those in Michigan, who sustain such injuries, can have a difficult time coping with the challenges of normal life. For this reason, Social Security Disability Insurance benefits may be available from the federal government to help parents raise a child with needs related to a birth injury.
Several other programs can help with medical, financial and educational needs. The Children’s Health Insurance Program and Medicaid are federal insurance programs available to families who meet certain income guidelines. The Early Intervention Program is available for infants and toddlers up to age 3. All medical expenses incurred because of birth injuries are covered by these insurance policies.
Children with disabilities can also apply for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSI benefits are available for disabilities caused by cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, muscular dystrophy and low birth weight. SSI is also available for children with total blindness or deafness. To be eligible for SSI payments, the disability should be severe, impose limitations and last at least 1 year, and the disabled child should not be earning more than $1,070 a month.
Children with disabilities are also entitled to state-sponsored special education services, under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Children with intellectual or learning disabilities, autism, speech, visual or hearing impairments, emotional or behavioral disturbances and other health challenges are qualified to receive these special educational services. Currently, some 6 million children across the country are receiving education under the act’s provisions.
Other services are also provided by the federal and state governments, including transportation to and from school, occupational counseling and physical therapy. These special opportunities are provided to help children with special needs find their own place in mainstream society.
Source: BirthInjuryGuide.org, “Governmental Services for Babies with Birth Injuries,” accessed on July 2, 2014