Services & Programs

Frequently Asked Questions

Appointments and Information FAQs

Does CHC only see young children? What about my teenager?
CHC sees kids of all ages. Much of its reputation is built on a long-term specialty
in young child programs, but CHC also works extensively with older children and teenagers.

Does CHC have medical doctors?
Many people ask if CHC provides primary or specialty pediatric services. While
we do have child psychiatrists who are medical doctors, we do not provide
pediatric medical care. We will work very closely with your medical team.

Does nonprofit mean there's no cost?
The Children's Health Council does charge for its services, like any doctor, hospital
or service agency. We do offer financial aid based on ability to pay, and our primary mission is to provide service, not to make a profit.

Is CHC a governmental organization, or part of the school or county?
CHC is a nonprofit agency not affiliated with any other state or local organization. Many of our clients receive services from school districts, county social service agencies or other private agencies, and we work closely with all of those organizations as necessary.

Are my services at CHC confidential, or do you send everything to the school and/or doctor?
While coordinated care can certainly be in the best interests of the child, services
at CHC are completely confidential, and are not shared with anyone without the consent of the legal guardian for the child.

Are you part of Stanford?
While CHC is located adjacent to the Stanford University campus, and has enjoyed
a long history of partnership on specific clinical and training programs, there is no official organizational relationship between the two.

Do I need a referral from my doctor to come to you?
Not necessarily. CHC takes calls or referrals and provides services as needed.
It is often best, however, to coordinate care with a primary care doctor, and formal referrals are a good way to exchange information. Plus, a formal referral from a doctor or insurance company is sometimes necessary for insurance reimbursement.

Can I talk to anyone before I bring my child in for services? I don't really know what it is my child needs.
CHC is committed to making experienced and trained clinicians available to speak
with the public through a simple phone call. Each call to CHC is given all the personal time and attention needed to recommend the best available option for consultation, evaluation or treatment.

Families or professionals interested in our services should contact Access, Information and Referral at: (650) 688-3625