EPSDT- one quarter million screenings in Michigan

Since the spring of 1973, Michigan's EPSDT program has screened more than 300,000 children. The Department of Social Services contracted with the Department of Public Health to design the screening and referral parts of the program; in turn the Department of Public Health contracts with local health departments to do screening with one or more teams composed of a nurse, two technicians, and a clerk. The 72 teams screen 10,000 clients each month. More than one-half of these clients are referred for diagnosis and treatment. The highest percentage (27 per cent) of referral is for dental care; the second highest (26 per cent) is for immunization. Participation in the program of state and local social services departments, local health departments, and all groups of health providers has been excellent. There continues to be a high no-show for screening and a moderate no-show rate to providers for diagnosis and treatment. Evaluation of the program elements is needed.