Managed care structures affect how public health agencies carry out their community-wide public health responsibilities.
State Title V MCH programs can and should help local public health agencies learn about managed care and the MOU process. In terms of EPSDT, MOUs might define interaction related to case management, data reporting, immunization billing, children with special health care needs, and so forth.
Studies by the GWU-Center for Health Services Research and Policy indicate that:
MOUs have a limited impact on resolution of certain fundamental issues and do not typically improve:
Children with Special Health Care Needs Programs
Many children identified by Title V Agencies as CSHCN are Medicaid recipients.Program linkages can improve care, reduce expenditures, and better support families.
Child Welfare Programs, including Foster Care
Children entering the foster care system are entitled to Medicaid and an initial or periodic EPSDT screen. States have a variety of approaches to fulfilling this obligation.
IDEA Part C Early Intervention Program
Under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Part C program, states provide early intervention services for infants and toddlers (birth to age 3) that have or have a high risk for experiencing developmental delays. Some children qualify for both Medicaid and IDEA financing. Medicaid financing for certain services provided to a child and family under a Part C is permitted by federal law.
Head Start Programs
A majority of children served in Head Start programs are Medicaid eligible. The Federal Head Start program calls for linkages and coordination, as part of Head Start health services. The Administration for Children & Families provide links of state resources by region.