EPDST (Early Periodic Screening, Diagnosis and Treatment)

All children, from birth to age 21, who have Medical Assistance coverage are eligible to receive preventive, routinue health care as well as medically necessary specialized care or services.  The goal of EPSDT is to identify and treat health conditions early to promote normal growth and development.

EPSDT services, since they include preventive services, are available at a child's regular visit with his or her doctor.  In some cases, where special health care needs are identified, additional services may be available. 

New EPSDT Periodicity Schedules

The Department of Human Services has developed two new EPSDT Periodicity Schedules for Rhode Island’s Medical Assistance Program. A schedule for general health and preventive visits and also one for oral health. These new requirements affect children who are under age 21 enrolled in a RIte Care health plan and children enrolled in Medical Assistance Fee-For-Service.

The EPSDT Schedule reflects newly released recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics as well as current Rhode Island laws and regulations. Highlights of the new EPSDT requirements include:

• Three additional well-child visits at 30 months of age, 7 years old and 9 years old
• A new requirement for developmental screening using a standardized tool at  9 months, 18 months and 30 months
• A new requirement for autism screening using a standardized tool at 18 and 24 months
• A new requirement for measuring body mass index (BMI) starting at 24 months

• A new requirement for risk assessment of blood lipids (dyslipidemia) including screening when clinically indicated, starting at 24 months

Pediatric EPSDT Schedule

Pediatric Oral Health EPSDT Schedule