Early Periodic Screening, Diagnosis and Treatment Services

Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis and Treatment (EPSDT) is a federally mandated Medicaid program for children for detection and treatment of many preventable conditions. EPSDT provides school physicals or well-child checkups for Medicaid eligible children from birth to age 21. Children should be checked periodically for medical problems at an early age, because once a problem is found early, it can be treated before it becomes serious. 

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that these preventive health visits occur on or before the following ages: 1 month; 2 months; 4 months; 6 months; 9 months; 12 months; 15 months; 18 months; 24 months; 30 months; 3 years; 4 years; 5 years; 6 years; 8 years; and once a year for ages 6-20. For more information, refer to the American Academy of Pediatrics Periodicity Schedule.

When you bring your child to Muhlenberg County Health Department for an EPSDT exam, a nurse will discuss any health issues and concerns you have for your child and include an exam that addresses the following: general wellness; growth and development assessments; nutrition; activity; vision; hearing; dental care; immunizations; and certain laboratory tests. Age appropriate counseling and education will also be included in your visit. Follow ups and referrals may be made as needed. 

For more information on the Kentucky Department for Public Health’s EPSDT program, refer to https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dms/dpqo/dcmb/Pages/epsdt-screenings.aspx  or call the Muhlenberg County Health Department at 270-754-3200.