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9.01.2024

What is the Healthy Kids Program (EPSDT)? A Parent’s Guide for Screening, Diagnosis and Treatment

When it comes to your child’s health, it’s important to know about the services and programs available to help them grow up strong and healthy. One important program is EPSDT, which stands for Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment. This program is part of Medicaid, the government health insurance program that helps families with lower incomes. 

Let’s break down what EPSDT is and how it can help your child.

What Is EPSDT?

EPSDT, referred to as the “Healthy Kids” program in Nevada, is a program designed to make sure that children and teenagers under the age of 21 who are enrolled in Medicaid receive the medical services they need. 

The goal of EPSDT is to catch health problems early, provide regular check-ups, and ensure that children receive the treatment they need to stay healthy.

What Does EPSDT Cover?

EPSDT covers a wide range of health services. These include:

1. Screening Services: These are regular check-ups that help doctors find health issues early. Screenings include physical exams, hearing tests, vision tests, and dental check-ups. These visits also check for growth and development to make sure your child is meeting important milestones.
2. Diagnostic Services: If a screening shows something unusual, diagnostic services are used to figure out what’s wrong. This could mean more tests, like blood work or X-rays, to diagnose a health problem.
3. Treatment Services: If your child is diagnosed with a health issue, EPSDT ensures they get the treatment they need. This can include medications, surgeries, therapies, or other necessary medical services.
4. Other Important Services: EPSDT also covers services like immunizations (shots), mental health care, physical therapy, speech therapy, and even transportation to medical appointments if needed.

Why Is EPSDT Important?

The goal of EPSDT is to make sure that children’s health issues are caught early and treated before they become bigger problems. Regular check-ups can prevent illnesses and ensure that your child is growing and developing as they should.

If a problem is found, the program makes sure your child gets the necessary care, no matter how complex or expensive it might be.

How Can You Access EPSDT?

If your child is enrolled in Medicaid, they automatically qualify for EPSDT. You can access these services by scheduling regular check-ups with your child’s doctor. Make sure to ask about EPSDT at your child’s appointments, so you know which services your child can receive. If your child needs additional care, your doctor can help guide you to the right resources.

What Should You Do?

• Schedule Regular Check-ups: Make sure to take your child to the doctor for regular check-ups. These visits help catch any health issues early.
• Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask your child’s doctor about EPSDT services and how they can help your child.
• Stay Informed: Keep up with your child’s health by staying informed about the services they are entitled to through EPSDT.

EPSDT is a valuable program that ensures children and teenagers receive the health care they need to grow up healthy and strong. By taking advantage of EPSDT, you can help protect your child’s health and give them the best chance for a bright future. 

Make sure to use this program to its fullest by staying on top of your child’s medical care and regularly visiting the doctor.

First 5 Nevada has additional information about Developmental Milestones and the Nevada Medicaid and Check Up programs. See what you may qualify for by clicking here.

Additional Resources:

Nevada Healthy Kids Website: https://dhcfp.nv.gov/Pgms/CPT/EPSDT/ 

Frequently Asked Questions about the Nevada Healthy Kids Program: https://dhcfp.nv.gov/uploadedFiles/dhcfpnvgov/content/Pgms/CPT/Healthy_Kids_Program_FAQ.pdf

American Academy of Pediatrics – Bright Futures Initiative: https://www.aap.org/en/practice-management/bright-futures