Learn about MASSTART

Learn about the MASSTART program, what we do, and who can use these services.

What is MASSTART?

MASSTART is a free service supported by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.

MASSTART providers help families and schools plan for the health care and safety of children with special health care needs, especially those who are assisted by medical technology, so that they can attend schools safely in Massachusetts.

MASSTART providers have extensive experience providing health care services to children and adolescents with a wide range of complex health conditions and technology needs.

Who can use MASSTART services?

• Families who have children with complex health issues and/or are assisted by medical technology (e.g. a child may use feeding tubes, tracheostomy, ventilator, oxygen, intravenous lines) or have chronic illness.
• Health care providers 
• School personnel 
• Early intervention providers 
• Community agencies
   

What does MASSTART do?

MASSTART providers work collaboratively with families and school personnel to:

• Help the school team understand the special health care needs of the child
• Work with schools and families toward resolving the issues impacting the child’s health needs in the school day
• Train school personnel to meet the health care needs of individual children
• Assist in the development of the child's individual health care plan and emergency plan for school
• Provide educational programs about children with special health care needs in school
• Provide information, referral, and community resources