Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment Services
In accordance with the requirements in Section 1905(r) of the Social Security Act and Title 42 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Section 441.50 et seq., the Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) is responsible for providing full-scope Medi-Cal beneficiaries under the age of 21 with a comprehensive, high-quality array of preventive (such as screening), diagnostic, and treatment services under EPSDT. These services are covered without cost.
Medi-Cal Coverage for EPSDT:
Consistent with federal law and regulations for EPSDT, Medi-Cal covers all medically necessary services, including those to "correct or ameliorate" defects and physical and mental illness conditions.
Information for Medi-Cal Beneficiaries:
Infants, children, and youth up to age 21 with full-scope Medi-Cal are able to receive EPSDT services.
More information is available on the Information for Medi-Cal Beneficiaries resource document.
Information for Medi-Cal Providers
Medi-Cal, health and mental health plans, and enrolled providers should tell Medi-Cal beneficiaries under age 21 about and how to access EPSDT benefits and services through written and oral information.
Helpful Resources and Documents:
Federal Approvals
SPA 15-034: Updates language regarding Early and Periodic, Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment and preventive and wellness services.