Michigan Makes Major Strides in Medicaid Policy for At-Risk Children

Michigan, with a history of leading the nation in social policy, has made major strides in four key areas in at-risk policies for children.

First, the state is expanding its Medicaid policy to better embrace the well-being of all children, including foster children with Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis and Testing (EPSDT).

Second, the state is departing from the "abuse and neglect" policy machine by adopting the concept of early prevention.   When I was in DC working on this the term was called "busting silos" in child welfare.  The purpose is coordinate with all departments to improve the quality of life for children and their families which is a far cry from the out-dated model of Child Protective Services.

Early screening allows for services and resources to be immediately allocated to prevent any further hardship.  Most conditions of disabilities in children still fall under the category of abuse and neglect which has been the only way a child can access services.

Third, billing and cost reimbursements in child welfare seems to become more transparent through universal screening.  It should be noted that there will be more scrutiny with the use of psychotropic medication in foster care.  My only issue is that Michigan Children's Institute has yet to be shut down because I fail to see its purpose.  Waste of money and I do not believe in omnipotence.

Lastly, this is job creation for the state.  More than that, it is specialized in child welfare.  This is an opportunity for new research in pediatric medicine and social policy.  Looks like CPS may have to come into the 21st century with EPSDT.

Michigan Medicaid Policy Proposal on Early Screening in Child Welfare

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