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Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment (EPSDT) is a required benefit for all "categorically needy" children (e.g., those who have poverty-level income, receive Supplemental Security Income, or receive federal foster care or adoption assistance). EPSDT's rules reflect the greater health needs of low-income children, as well as children whose special health needs qualify them for assistance. Low-income children covered by public insurance are more likely to be born at low birthweight, which increases the risk for lifelong disability, and more likely to be in fair or poor health, to have developmental delays or learning disorders, or to have medical conditions requiring ongoing use of prescription drugs. Serious health conditions affect 80 percent of children in foster care. For these children, Medicaid is essential to ensure access to preventive and developmental services.
All Ages
Infancy (<1), Toddlerhood (1-3), Preschool/Kindergarten (3-5), School Age (6-12), Adolescence (13-21), Adulthood (22+)
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