Territorial Contact
Stephanie Knudson
Puerto Rico Administration for Children and Families
Department of the Family
PO Box 194090
San Juan, PR 00919-4090
Phone: (787) 625-4900
[email protected]
Puerto Rico web page on adoption
https://www.familia.pr.gov/#servicio-al-ciudadano
In Puerto Rico children with physical, mental or emotional disabilities who require continuous and prolonged medical treatment. The definition of “special needs” is any condition that makes placement difficult unless it is subsidized.
To qualify for subsidy, the child must have the following characteristics:
- 7 year old or older
- siblings
- medical conditions
Higher rates will require supporting documentation that child has current medical diagnosis that warrant a higher rate. The criteria is based on the child’s physical or mental condition (when they need continuous and prolonged medical treatment; such as, severe disabilities (blind, deaf, HIV+, Down Syndrome, Schizophrenia). The amount paid for a child must not exceed the amount paid to a foster parent.
The Department of the Family may provide financing for medical services that are not covered by the government health card although it is not explicitly explained in its reference manual. It can be evaluated by a specialist.
Minors aged 18 years or older with a continuous and prolonged mental or physical condition can claim the extension of the subsidy until they turn 21 years of age with the approval of the Central Office.