Advisory committees for agencies that provide services for children with special health-care needs

The Children's Special Health Care Services Advisory Committee is an advisory group that includes stakeholders in the delivery of care for children with special health-care needs. An emphasis has purposely been placed on consumer participation to ensure adequate voice and balance with other provider, legislative, and bureaucratic interests. The Advisory Committee has assumed an aggressive and complete role in reviewing and recommending every aspect of the program. As a result of this active co-ownership, the program has repeatedly survived threats of serious budget cuts and reductions to its base. Agreement between providers and consumers on values, structure, and operational needs has been reached. A win-win approach has been possible, not only in the planning and growth of the program but also in the policy arena, legislatively, and with the administration.