VCU RRTC

Youth with special health care needs (YSHCN) want a full range of opportunities like everyone else and require a coordinated system of care. Lifelong health issues require lifespan skills. The challenge is to simultaneously improve the system that serves YSHCN and prepare youth and their families with the knowledge and skills necessary to promote self-determination, wellness and successful transition to adulthood. Success in the classroom, within the community, and on the job requires that young people with special health care needs stay healthy. To stay healthy, youth need an understanding of their health issues, strategies to avoid secondary disabilities and to be involved in their health care decisions at an early age or they will not be able to participate fully in activities that provide satisfying life experiences.