Children & Families

More than 60% of Louisiana's children rely on Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) for healthcare, making these programs a cornerstone of the Louisiana Department of Health’s services.

These essential programs ensure that children receive necessary medical care, fostering healthy futures. The Louisiana Department of Health is dedicated to supporting families and children through a variety of services, including maternal health, behavioral support and resources for developmental disabilities. By providing these comprehensive services, LDH aims to improve the overall health and well-being of families across the state. Additionally, LDH serves as a centralized source of vital health information, offering clear guidance on how to access care, apply for Medicaid and connect with necessary support programs. LDH is committed to empowering families with the resources they need to navigate their healthcare journey effectively, ensuring that every child in Louisiana has the opportunity to thrive.

There are a variety of resources and helpful materials available for children, families, caregivers and healthcare professionals. If you're unable to find a specific document or information on the website, please contact 1-866-758-5035 for assistance.

Louisiana WIC

WIC is healthy food, breastfeeding support, nutrition education and help with keeping YOUR family healthy! WIC can even link you to other health and social services.

Reproductive Health Program

The Louisiana Department of Health, Office of Public Health, Bureau of Family Health leads Louisiana’s reproductive health program.

Newborn Screening Program

The Louisiana Newborn Screening program works to diagnose and treat genetic and metabolic disorders as early as possible. 

Genetic Diseases Program

The Louisiana Genetic Diseases Program is to operate a comprehensive newborn heel stick screening program and ensure residents in all areas of Louisiana have access to genetic evaluation and counseling.

The Louisiana Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (LA EHDI) Program

The Louisiana Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (LA EHDI) program supports coordinated systems of care that ensure families of babies and children who are deaf or hard-of-hearing (D/HH) receive appropriate and timely services. 

Emergency Medical Services for Children

Louisiana’s Emergency Medical Services for Children (EMSC) program was established in 1992 and operates within the Bureau of Family Health. EMSC is an initiative designed to reduce child and youth morbidity and mortality caused by acute illness or injury.

Sickle Cell Disease Program

The Sickle Cell Program works to help diagnose and treat sickle cell disease in babies as early as possible. They connect people diagnosed with sickle cell to resources, medical care and other services through the Sickle Cell Foundations and Clinics around the state. 

Resources

To learn more about how LDH programming can support you and your children, please utilize the resources below.

Find a Doctor
​​Locate healthcare providers in Louisiana that accept Medicaid and other health programs for children and families.

Ask a Question about Medicaid Programs
Contact an LDH representative to learn more about Medicaid services, eligibility and coverage plan options for you and your family.

Services for Members 0-21
Access healthcare support services designed for children and young adults, through age 21, with Louisiana's Medicaid program.

Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic and Treatment (EPSDT) Age Out
Discover continuing care options as children transition out of EPSDT services at age 21.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Louisiana Department of Health offers services such as maternal and child health programs, immunizations, behavioral health support, and developmental disability services.

You can apply for Medicaid and the Louisiana Children’s Health Insurance Program (LaCHIP) through the Louisiana Medicaid Online Services Center. Applications can also be submitted by mail, fax, or in person. To request a mailed application, you can call 1-877-252-2447.

  • Louisiana offers the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program, which provides nutritious food, breastfeeding support, nutrition education, and health referrals to low-income pregnant women, postpartum women, and children up to their 5th birthday.
  • Visit LouisianaWIC.org for more information.

The Louisiana Behavioral Health Services offers counseling, crisis intervention, and treatment services for children and families. For assistance, you can contact their Behavioral Health hotline at 1-877-664-2248.

Learn more about resources for children and youth with special health needs.

Surgeon General Ralph L. Abraham, M.D.

Secretary Bruce D. Greenstein

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