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Foster Parents Support

We’re honored to stand by your side

We work with foster parents across the state to get the best health care possible for children and teens in custody with the Department of Children’s Services (DCS). We’re here to help keep them healthy, safe and on track.

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Two children working together to build a toy rocket ship

A little extra something with SelectKids

We know entering foster care can be a very challenging time for children. We're here to help support your foster family. You can count on us for help with medical care, mental health, and community and social needs. We're here to make sure your child can get the care they need, when they need it.

You can find more details about your child's benefits in the SelectKids Resource Parent Booklet.

SelectKids Resource Parent Booklet

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A boy with Down syndrome hugs his little brother A boy with Down syndrome hugs his little brother

Here's how we work with you and your DCS team:

Getting Started

We’re notified right away when a child comes into DCS custody. Children get 45 days of immediate coverage. We’ll get them set up in our system and connect with their DCS representative within 48 hours. We’ll share two copies of your child’s ID card with their DCS representative. One goes in your child’s file, and you’ll get the other.

Need a replacement ID card? Your DCS representative can order it for you. You can also print a temporary ID card from your online account.

Finding a Provider

We assign your child's primary care provider (PCP). The PCP’s name is listed on your child's Member ID card. We can also help find a new PCP if your child is relocated or another change needs to be made.

If you need to find a new provider in your network, you can use our Find Care tool. And if your provider needs an eligibility fax, you can call 1-888-422-2963.

If you need to find a new provider in your network, you can use our Find Care tool. And if your provider needs an eligibility fax, you can call 1-888-422-2963.

Health Care Coordination

Children and teens in state custody may have complex health needs. We work with DCS in getting the right care – including finding a specialist or helping make appointments. We have special health programs for extra support.

We also participate in:
  • Child and family team meetings
  • Center of Excellence case reviews
  • Well-being triage and/or utilization reviews

Other Ways We Can Help

  • Setting up visits to the doctor
  • Providing your medical records and history
  • Helping with DCS appeals
  • Reporting on who qualifies for TennCare Kids exams
  • Reporting on who needs those exams

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Health and Wellness History Notebook

Want a helpful notebook for storing important health records?
Just call us at 1-888-422-2963 or send us an email. Want a helpful notebook for storing important health records?
Just call us at 1-888-422-2963 or send us an email.

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Resources for foster parents
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Sending Comfort

We’ll send a duffel bag with each child entering care to help them feel more at home. The bag is packed with some of the things your foster child needs for this big transition, like toiletries, a blanket and a night light. To request a bag for your foster child, just email us.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Looking for information about your foster child's health plan? Use this section to explore common questions we get from foster parents.

  • Member ID
  • Providers
  • Other benefits
  • Eligibility
  • Materials
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Member ID

How do I get a new Member ID card for my foster child?

Your DCS representative can get you a copy. Or you can call us at 1-888-422-2963 and we'll mail you a copy. You can also log in to your online account to print a temporary ID card.

Your DCS representative can get you a copy. Or you can call us at 1-888-422-2963 and we'll mail you a copy. You can also log in to your online account to print a temporary ID card.

Does my foster child need a separate card for dental benefits?

No. Use your foster child’s TennCareSelect℠ member ID card for appointments.

Is there a separate Member ID card for pharmacy benefits?

Yes. OptumRx will send a separate pharmacy benefits card. Call your DCS representative to request a copy.

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Providers

Where can I find a list of providers my foster child can see?

You can log in to your online account and click “Get Care.” Or you can call us at 1-888-422-2963 Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET.

You can log in to your online account and click “Get Care.” Or you can call us at 1-888-422-2963 Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET.

Does my foster child need a referral to see a specialist?

We don't require a referral for your foster child to see a specialist in our network. But some specialists may require a referral. So we suggest you get one from your foster child's PCP.

How can I find or change my foster child’s primary care provider (PCP)?

You can find your foster child’s PCP on their Member ID card. Or you can log in to your online account. You can ask for a new PCP any time. Just give us a call.

How often should my foster child have a checkup?

You can find out more about well-child checkups and how often they’re needed here.

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Other benefits

How can I get help with transportation?

Your DCS representative can help you get a ride to non-emergency TennCare visits. We can also help set up rides in some situations. Be sure to schedule your ride at least three days before your appointments.

Who do I call about dental care?

DentaQuest handles dental benefits. You can call them at 1-855-418-1622. You can also read DentaQuest’s helpful guide to caring for your foster child’s teeth here and in Spanish here.

DentaQuest handles dental benefits. You can call them at 1-855-418-1622. You can also read DentaQuest’s helpful guide to caring for your foster child’s teeth here and in Spanish here.

Who should I call if I have questions about prescription coverage?

OptumRX handles prescription coverage. You can call them at 1-888-816-1680.

OptumRX handles prescription coverage. You can call them at 1-888-816-1680.

What over-the-counter supplies are included in my foster child’s health plan? And how do I get emergency prescriptions for my foster child?

You can find a list of covered over-the-counter supplies here. For help getting emergency prescriptions, call your foster child’s PCP or OptumRx.

Where can I get health advice?

You can call our Nurseline at 1-800-262-2873 for free health advice 24/7. Or you can search our library of health topics here.

You can call our Nurseline at 1-888-422-2963 for free health advice 24/7. Or you can search our library of health topics here.

Can I get a replacement pair of glasses for my foster child?

Yes. You can replace your foster child's lost or broken glasses if a doctor says it's medically necessary. Please contact your in-network vision provider for a replacement pair of glasses.

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Eligibility

I adopted my child through DCS/foster care and need to change their name. How do I do that?

Your Adoption Specialist with DCS can help you with name changes and any other needed updates.

The doctor’s office asked me to fill out paperwork saying who is guaranteeing payment. Should I put my information on these forms?

No. Foster parents shouldn’t list themselves as the person responsible for payment on medical forms. If the provider refuses to see your foster child because of this, please call your DCS representative for help.

How do I check my foster child’s eligibility?

You can check their eligibility through your online account. Or you can give us a call at 1-888-422-2963. We’re available Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET

You can check their eligibility through your online account. Or you can give us a call at 1-888-422-2963. We’re available Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET

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Materials

Can I update my foster child’s address so mail comes directly to my home?

No. We can’t update your foster child’s mailing address. All materials, including Member ID cards, are mailed to the DCS office. You should get in touch with your DCS office to get information on any mail for you.

How can I see the quarterly newsletter?

You can get our current and previous newsletters here.

Where can I find the Member Handbook and more details on what care is covered?

You can find our current Member Handbook in English and Spanish here.