Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment Program: screening services.
The bill's requirements will align California's Medi-Cal program with federal guidelines regarding developmental screenings. It establishes a framework for external quality reviews of managed care plans, ensuring compliance with the use of standardized developmental screening tools recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. The intent is to reduce the current inconsistency in developmental screenings, which is critical for early identification and intervention for children with potential delays or disabilities.
Assembly Bill 11, introduced by Assembly Members McCarty and Bonta, primarily aims to enhance the developmental healthcare services provided under the Medi-Cal program. The bill mandates the inclusion of developmental screening services for children aged zero to three within the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment (EPSDT) program. This amendment is designed to ensure that all children, especially those susceptible to delays or disabilities, receive timely and appropriate interventions to support their healthy development.
The sentiment surrounding AB 11 has been largely positive, particularly among healthcare advocates and child welfare organizations. Supporters argue that increasing access to developmental screenings will lead to early detection of issues, thereby enhancing children's overall health outcomes. Opponents, if any, have not been extensively documented, implying that the focus is on the bill's potential benefits rather than significant contention.
Despite the general support for AB 11, there may be minor concerns regarding the implementation logistics, such as the capacity of managed care plans to effectively conduct the required screenings and follow-ups. The bill will sunset its provisions related to annual reviews by July 1, 2023, which opens a pathway for future re-evaluation of its efficacy and impact on children’s health services within the Medi-Cal framework.