Field Placements: New York State Department of Health -- Bureau of Maternal and Child Health, Office of Medicaid Management
Location: Albany, NY
Preceptor: Marcia S. Rao, MPA
Student Name: Anna-Lia Quinio
Year: 2002

Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis and Treatment (EPSDT) is a benefit under children's Medicaid that consists of preventive dental, physical, and psychological care. For the state of New York, utilization of these services remained low despite increased Medicaid enrollment rates. Consequently, the New York State Department of Health sought information regarding effective outreach and informing practices. After analyzing the results of a literature review, state surveys, and a focus group, recommendations for improving EPSDT visibility in New York State were made.

Through an extensive literature search, I collected data relevant to outreach and informing practices regarding children's health insurance programs. These included the State Children's Health Insurance Program (S-CHIP) and Medicaid. In addition, I examined effective strategies for informing low-income, multicultural, and immigrant populations. Data from existing outreach programs enabled comparisons between effective and ineffective outreaching methods.

A state survey was also conducted in order to learn about the best practices of other health departments similar to New York's diverse population, size, and health care services offered. Twenty-five states and the District of Columbia participated in the survey. Information from states with successful Medicaid participation rates were examined and outreach practices were investigated to determine if these efforts might be reproduced in New York.

In a focus group consisting of Medicaid clients, I presented a newly developed outreach pamphlet and requested feedback. Participants also informed me of the outreach practices they preferred. This input was reviewed and compared to data found in current literature.

After conducting this research, I compiled the information, created recommendations, and generated a cost estimate for an outreach strategy that would increase the use of EPSDT services by child Medicaid recipients. These strategies will be incorporated into a Medicaid policy for the state of New York. Outreach will be implemented pending approval of the proposed budget.

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