The purpose of this booklet is to provide answers to basic questions about the Medicaid Early and Periodic Screening Diagnosis, and Treatment (EPSDT) program. The first section argues that the need for EPSDT is evidenced in statistics on the health status of needy children. Provision of health care for many needy children depends on their elegibility for Medicaid; however, Medicaid is not available to all disadvantaged children in need of health services. Section Two argues that because its mandate covers all eligible poor children, the EPSDT program is able to meet the health needs of all youth from low income families. The program status, screening effectiveness, program design, inter-agency relationships and related benefits of the program are discussed. Section Three explores aspects of program implementation including states' roles, cost and quality of EPSDT services, and program administration. Section Four briefly overviews program eligibility, confidentiality of records, and client's choice of service provider. The final section summarizes EPSDT experiences in attempting to provide health services and lists problems likely to be faced by any comprehensive health care program. (Author/RH)