CMS Clarifies Autism Services Requirements In Medicaid EPSDT Benefit

On July 7, 2014, the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) clarified that autism services are a requirement in state Medicaid plans through the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis and Treatment (EPSDT) provision. All children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) must receive EPSDT screenings to identify health and developmental issues including ASDs as early as possible. If the services needed are not covered in the Medicaid State Plan, the state will "nonetheless need to arrange for and cover it for the child" as long as the service or supply is included within the categories of mandatory and optional . . .