Feb 4, 2021
Today’s guest is Ivy Alexander, Executive Director of the Office for Children with Special Health Care Needs (OCSHCN). This is a position I once held that is very near and dear to my heart. Ivy comes from a family of scientists and engineers, and graduated with a BS in Biomedical Engineering with a focus on rehabilitation. Part of her education was to design devices and systems that make children’s lives easier. She is now responsible for policymaking and the administration of all programs related to specialty medical and therapeutic services for children with special health care needs.
OCSHCN has 11 offices across the state and has made every effort to be involved in local communities over the years, from community baby showers to booths in county fairs. This advocacy has increased awareness and access to health care in smaller towns where traveling teams of doctors see children and families. Ivy’s office was on the cutting edge of telehealth with OCSHCN's autism and neurology program even before COVID-19. Building on this, a grant was recently received to allow families to consult with physicians from their homes. Ivy has some exciting goals for 2021 to further support and provide health care access to children across the commonwealth.
I miss working directly with children at OCSHCN, but I am grateful for exemplary leaders like Director Alexander who enhance the quality of life for Kentucky’s children with special health care needs.