Medicaid managed care policies affecting children with disabilities: 1995 and 1996

The authors present findings from a study of State Medicaid managed care enrollment and benefit policies in 1995 and 1996 for children with disabilities. During this time the number of States serving children through fully capitated plans grew by more than one-third, and enrollment of children receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments and children in subsidized foster care increased. Most States required plans to provide all mandatory and most optional Medicaid services. Although States have begun to make noticeable improvements in their contract language concerning medical necessity and the early and periodic screening, diagnosis, and treatment (EPSDT) benefit, overall State guidance in these areas remains weak.