Protecting Children’s Access: Advancing EPSDT Knowledge and Practice

Objetivo

Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment (EPSDT) is a comprehensive Medicaid benefit for children and youth under age 21 and a critical foundation of the systems of care upon which those with complex health needs (CHN) and their families depend. EPSDT includes periodic and as-needed screenings to monitor children’s physical and mental health, as well as coverage for all medically necessary services to correct, ameliorate, or improve health conditions. These services can be especially important for minimizing the impact of many childhood conditions experienced by children and youth with CHN. Despite federal requirements for states to inform families about EPSDT, significant gaps remain in knowledge, outreach, screening, and treatment.  

Through this project, the National Health Law Program (NHeLP) will develop five tip sheets, an issue brief, and two webinars to help increase understanding of EPSDT and support improved implementation. The primary audiences for these informational materials and events include pediatricians serving Medicaid beneficiaries and those participating in policy advocacy, as well as child health advocacy and family-centered organizations supporting children and youth with CHN. External partners, including nationally recognized family leader Cara Coleman of Bluebird Way Consulting, the National Alliance to Advance Adolescent Health, and the American Academy of Pediatrics, will play a key role in the development and dissemination of the resources.