Medically Necessary Instruction

Medically Necessary Instruction provides educational services for all school-aged children (grades 3-K to12) who are unable to attend school due to orthopedic, non-orthopedic/medical, or psychiatric reasons.

  • This program serves students in all five boroughs of New York City.
  • It is an interim, non-diploma granting program.
  • The instruction provides academic services to limit the educational effects of a long-term absence (four weeks or more).
  • The Medically Necessary Instruction operates during the day and after-school hours.

Submit a Request for Medically Necessary Instruction

In order to request Medically Necessary Instruction Services, the parent/guardian of the student must notify the school’s guidance counselor and work with the school of affiliation (“home school”) to submit a complete application including all four of the forms in the Medically Necessary Instruction Application Packet:

  1. Authorization for Release of Medical Records (HIPAA Form): to be completed by Parent /Student
    • Please note that if the student is 18 years of age or older and able, they MUST sign the form themselves
  2. Medically Necessary Instruction Referral Form: to be completed by the student’s home school
    • High school students must also submit their permanent record, program, and transcript.
  3. Medically Necessary Instruction Medical Referral Form: to be completed by a physician.
  4. Family Request Form for In-Person Services in Medical Necessary Instruction: to be completed by a parent.

Important Information

  • Be sure you complete ALL pages in the application.
  • Submitting application materials does not ensure approval for services.
  • To avoid delays in the application process, please make sure that all applicable information is completed.
  • All referrals for psychiatric reasons must be made by a PSYCHIATRIST.
  • Send this completed package to hiapply@schools.nyc.gov or fax them to (718) 472-6113.
  • Medically Necessary Instruction is not available for students who cannot attend school because they have not met immunization requirements. Families should contact the Office of Home Schooling for additional information at 917-339-1793 or homeschool@schools.nyc.gov.