Health Care Program for Children in Foster Care
The Health Care Program for Children in Foster Care (HCPCFC) is a public health nursing program located in county child welfare service agencies and probation departments to provide public health nurse (PHN) expertise in meeting the medical, dental, mental and developmental needs of children and youth in out of home placement. The program functions as part of local Child Welfare Departments, bridging the unique social determinates of health experienced by this population and providers of health services. The goals and objectives of the HCPCFC are common to the health, welfare, and probation departments and are implemented through close collaboration and cooperation among this multi-disciplinary, interdepartmental team. The program has established a process through which PHNs consult and collaborate with the foster care team to promote access to comprehensive preventive health and specialty services.
Through the HCPCFC, PHNs under the supervision of a supervising public health nurse (SPHN) provide the following services in consultation and collaboration with social workers and probation officers.
- Medical and health care case planning;
- Help foster caregivers to obtain timely comprehensive health assessments and dental examinations,
- Expedite referrals for medical, dental, mental health and developmental services;
- Coordinate health services for children in out-of-county and out-of-state placements;
- Provide medical education through the interpretation of medical reports and training for foster team members on the special health care needs of children and youth in foster care;
- Participate in the creation and updating of the Health and Education Passport for every child as
- required by law.
To find out more about HCPCFC services or the application process, please contact your county HCPCFC office.
Questions and requests for information may be directed to HCPCFC@dhcs.ca.gov
