The Story of How Medicaid Coordinates Care for Medically Fragile Children

Christabel Camacho is the heart of the Texas Medicaid program. Christabel was born with a condition called Trisomy 18, or Edwards syndrome, which is a rare genetic disorder that causes severe physical disabilities. Many babies with Edwards syndrome do not survive in utero, and if they do, often do not live to see their 1st birthday. Christabel was born fighting and has never given up – defying the odds at every turn, and doing it with a big smile that lights up the room and the hearts of her loving family.

Christabel, along with the many Texas children who are medically fragile and have complex medical needs, is the very reason that Medicaid exists. Texas Medicaid covers Christabel’s medical expenses, coordinates her complex medical needs, and helps her stay as healthy as possible – all while providing caring support for her mom and family. Christabel and the Camacho family know firsthand the value of the one-on-one support and care provided by Driscoll health plan and nurse care coordinators like Carol McLaughlin, who devote their lives to serving these young people through the Texas Medicaid program.

Watch now to learn the story of the amazing Christabel Camacho, and how Texas Medicaid is providing Christabel the care and support she needs, so her family can spend more time making every moment count with their precious daughter.

“Driscoll Health Plan came in and doors started opening. It’s been a big stress reliever knowing there are these benefits and programs available and that we have the assistance we need. It’s been good knowing we have people out there who will help us.” 

– Teresa Camacho, Christabel’s mom

“Having a registered nurse as a service coordinator has made for a productive and positive relationship. I know I can pick up the phone and call Carol anytime and she will respond to whatever questions or concerns I have. That has been wonderful. The support she has provided to our family has been what we need.” 

– Teresa Camacho, Christabel’s mom

“In times of crisis, like with weather conditions, she’s checked up on us to make sure we have all the supplies we need. It’s just good to know that you’ve got someone there supporting you. She has been our advocate and an advocate for Christabel. She has helped speak for her. She has given her a voice.” 

– Teresa Camacho, Christabel’s mom