States are required to offer Medicaid coverage to eligible minors.
Although the U.S. Department of Human and Health Services oversees the Medicaid program, each state designs its own benefits plan in accordance with federal guidelines. Low-income individuals and families should check with their state to see if they meet the eligibility requirements for Medicaid coverage. Individuals with disabilities, pregnant women and children are the primary groups that receive Medicaid.
Screening and Treatment Coverage
Medicaid recipients under the age of 21 are covered under the Early and Periodic Screening and Diagnostic Treatment Benefit program. They must receive regular screenings, lab testing and medical examinations to ensure the physical and mental health of the patients. Any medical conditions that are diagnosed through these examinations or testing are eligible for treatment under this type of Medicaid coverage. Children and young adults covered under this benefit also have access to hearing, vision and dental screenings and treatment for any defects in those areas, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Dental Coverage
The Medicaid program offers dental coverage for both minors and adults. However, states are not required to offer dental services to adult recipients of Medicaid. Most states do cover services for adults with dental emergencies, according to the Department of Health and Human Services. Children and young adults under the age of 21 are required to receive periodic dental screenings and examinations to maintain dental health. In addition, Medicaid covers the treatment of dental conditions for those in this age group. This includes providing dental restoration, pain relief and treatment of infections.
Mental Health Coverage
Medicaid does provide coverage for mental health services; however, each state designs their own program for covered mental health exams or treatment. Medicaid recipients will need to check with their state's Medicaid department to get information about what mental health services are offered in their area. For example, the state of Washington provides Medicaid coverage of individual and group therapy, mental health medications and crisis situations. Iowa offers a state benefit plan that covers case management and habilitation services.
Special Coverage
Recipients with certain illnesses, referred to as special conditions, are eligible for Medicaid coverage. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, those special illnesses include breast cancer, cervical cancer, tuberculosis and sickle-cell disease. Medicaid covers cancer or tuberculosis treatments and provides assistance for those with sickle-cell health problems. As with other coverage plans, each state's Medicaid program can vary in its coverage of these illnesses.
