EPSDT Program (Children and Teens)

Preventive Health Care for Your Child or Teen

The Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis and Treatment (EPSDT) program can give your child a chance against disease.

Through the EPSDT program, your child’s primary care provider (PCP) will work with you to make sure your child gets the EPSDT benefits offered through Passport. EPSDT is a preventive health program for children and teens younger than the age of 21.

EPSDT checkups are recommended at the following ages:

• 1 month
  
• 2 months
  
• 4 months
  
• 6 months
  
• 9 months
  
• 12 months
  
• 15 months
  
• 18 months
  
• 24 months
  
• 30 months
  
• Every year from ages 3 through 20

EPSDT includes ongoing:

• Body Mass Index (BMI) testing.
  
• Medical history and physical exams.
  
• Growth and development checkups (social, personal, language and motor skills).
  
• Vision screens.
  
• Hearing screens.
  
• Dental screens.
  
• Nutrition counseling.
  
• Lab testing such as blood lead level.
  
• Mental health and risk behavior assessments- like safety, drugs, alcohol, etc.
  
• Immunizations (shots).
  
• Health education for parents and teens.
  
• Referrals for diagnosis/treatment, when needed.
  
• Substance abuse testing and education.

If your child’s PCP finds a problem that needs more care, he or she may suggest a specialist. Some services may be paid for under EPSDT Expanded Services if they are medically necessary. These services may include more dental and vision care, health education and other special care and supplies. If your child has the Kentucky Children’s Health Insurance Program (KCHIP), he or she may not be eligible for EPSDT Expanded Services.

Immunizations (Shots)

Atsome of the checkups, your child may need immunizations. Immunizations are shots that help the body fight disease. Each shot helps prevent diseases like chickenpox, measles or mumps. Children must have all the needed shots before they can start school.