Medicaid Payment for Pediatric Palliative Care Respite: The Case for Coverage Under EPSDT

 

Outlines a clear, actionable pathway to ensure children with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions can access medically necessary pediatric palliative care respite in their communities. Developed by members of NCPPCH’s Government Affairs Council, this paper defines Pediatric Palliative Care Respite (PPCRespite) and the Pediatric Palliative Care Center (PPCCenter) model, demonstrating how these services meet Medicaid’s EPSDT requirements and federal disability integration standards. Together, the full paper and executive summary provide policymakers, state leaders, and advocates with a practical framework to strengthen family caregiving, reduce avoidable hospitalizations, and build sustainable community-based pediatric palliative care nationwide.