The Medicaid Benefit You’ve Never Heard Of: Unlocking EPSDT with Jocelyn Guyer

In this episode hosts, Jason Hopcus and Heidi Baskfield  join policy powerhouse Jocelyn Guyer to break down one of the most powerful—but least understood—tools in youth mental health: the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment (EPSDT) benefit.

We unpack:

• What “Early,” “Periodic,” “Screening,” “Diagnostic,” and “Treatment” really mean—and why each word matters
• How EPSDT ensures medically necessary, individualized care for youth
• Why EPSDT isn’t just good policy—it’s cost-effective and underutilized
• Which states are leading the way—and where there's room to grow
• What system changes could unlock EPSDT’s full potential

Whether you're a parent, policymaker, educator, or provider, this episode will change how you see Medicaid—and the future of youth mental health care.