What is the Disabled Children’s Program (DCP)?

The DCP is a program that serves the needs of children with disabilities by paying for non-medical services. These services need to be related to the child’s disability. A worker helps the family develop a plan for the needed services. 

DCP cannot pay for services or items available from other sources.

Who may need this program?

Children who have needs related to their disability

What services may be available?

• Respite services to give the family a break from caregiving
• Mileage, meals, and lodging for long-distance medical trips
• Special equipment like van lifts, porch or stair lifts, and bath aids
• Home modifications to make the home more accessible for the child with disabilities
• Sibling care while the child with a disability is receiving medical care
• Training for parents about the child’s disability and care

Who may be eligible for this program?

Children who:

• Live in Nebraska
• Receive monthly Supplemental Security Income (SSI) checks
• Are 15 years of age or younger
• Have needs related to their disability

More questions and answers about DCP

Contact a Medically Handicapped Children's Program (MHCP) worker at one of the following locations who can answer your questions about DCP:

Western Nebraska--Gering (800) 477-6393
Central Nebraska--Grand Island (800) 892-7922
Southeast Nebraska--Lincoln (877) 213-4754
Northern Nebraska--Norfolk (888) 704-0180
Southwest Nebraska--North Platte (800) 778-1600
Omaha area-- (402) 595-2120

Information on becoming a provider of services

FAQs

How much respite service can my family receive through the Disabled Children’s Program (DCP)?

A local Medically Handicapped Children’s Program (MHCP) worker will tell you the amount of funds available. Your family will help to determine the provider’s rate of pay and number of hours for the respite service.

How much can I get repaid for mileage if I had to take my child to an out-of-town medical appointment?

Currently we reimburse 30 cents for every mile and the total reimbursement request must be over $25.

What is sibling care?

Sibling care pays the cost of child care for brother(s) and sister(s) of the child with a disability.  This is only to be used while the parents accompany the child with a disability to medical treatments or care. The DCP can only cover sibling child care costs if they cannot be covered by another source.

Who do I contact to apply for DCP or to make a referral?

Contact a MHCP worker at one of the following locations who can answer your questions about DCP:

Western Nebraska--Gering (800) 477-6393
Central Nebraska--Grand Island (800) 892-7922
Southeast Nebraska--Lincoln (877) 213-4754
Northern Nebraska--Norfolk (888) 704-0180
Southwest Nebraska--North Platte (800) 778-1600
Omaha area-- (402) 595-2120

Where can I read the HHS Regulations about DCP?

Title 467 - Title V Services for Medically Handicapped Children, Genetically Handicapped Persons' Program, and Supplemental Security Income Disabled Children's Program,
Click on Chapter 6