All Iowa children who are enrolled in Medicaid are automatically enrolled in EPSDT Care for Kids. EPSDT stands for Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis and Treatment.
The role of EPSDT Care for Kids is to promote the physical, mental, social, emotional and behavioral health of children from birth to age 21. The program emphasizes a regular schedule of health visits and screenings which are free to children enrolled in Medicaid.
Our staff are available to help you understand your child 's Medicaid health insurance, which covers essential appointments and services. EveryStep serves as a point of contact for Medicaid participants who live in the following counties:
Seeing the same doctor or medical provider is important. It allows a doctor to get to know you and your child so they can identify concerns. They will check for anything that could be a problem and develop a plan of care to address issues or concerns. These recommended checkups from birth to age 21 are called “well-child visits” and are paid for by Medicaid. Click here to view the recommended schedule for well-child visits.
It's important that children begin to receive dental care as soon as teeth erupt, making their first dental visit before their first birthday. After that, your child should see their dentist every 6 months. These visits are covered by Medicaid.
Orthodontia, or braces, are covered by Medicaid if your child 's dentist considers them medically necessary.
Children and adolescents of any age may experience issues with mental or behavioral health. Your child 's doctor can often help identify problems through careful screening and ongoing surveillance. Early identification is important to make sure your family can be connected with someone before more severe concerns develop.
• Adolescent depression screening should begin at age 12
• Alcohol and drug use screening should begin at age 11
