Bill > HR5411

This bill, known as the Fair Care for Kids Act, aims to expand access to comprehensive healthcare services for children under 21 who are receiving care in institutions for mental diseases (IMDs). Specifically, it amends Title XIX of the Social Security Act, which governs the Medicaid program, to ensure that these young individuals receive the full range of early and periodic screening, diagnostic, and treatment (EPSDT) services. EPSDT is a federal mandate under Medicaid that requires states to provide necessary health services to children, including screenings, diagnostic tests, and treatments, to address health problems early. The bill clarifies that these EPSDT services must be provided regardless of whether they are offered by the same provider that is delivering the primary care within the IMD, thereby removing potential barriers to accessing a complete suite of necessary medical and mental health treatments for these vulnerable children. The changes are set to take effect upon enactment, with a provision allowing states that require legislative action to have a grace period to implement the new requirements.