Child and Teen Checkups (C&TC)

Child and Teen Checkups (C&TC) visits are covered for children from birth through 20 years who are enrolled in Medical Assistance or MinnesotaCare. A C&TC visit meets the health checkup requirements for school, Head Start, WIC, child care, camp and sports participation physicals. Be sure to take any forms you need with you to the appointment.

C&TC is the name for Minnesota's Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis and Treatment (EPSDT) Program.

Where can I get a C&TC visit?

Your doctor or clinic
- Children enrolled in a health plan must get their checkups from providers in their health plan network
Some local public health departments

You can get help finding a doctor or dentist, making an appointment, finding transportation and arranging for an interpreter if needed.

See the Child and Teen Checkups Coordinator (PDF) and call your county or tribal coordinator
Call your health plan member services
For transportation under MinnesotaCare, call the MinnesotaCare office

What’s the purpose of the program?
- To promote age-appropriate preventive health services
- To support healthy growth and development of infants, children, adolescents and young adults
- Early identification, diagnosis and treatment of any potential health problems or disabilities
- To promote the development of good health habits, including healthy eating and physical activity
What’s included in a visit?
- Information about physical and mental health
- Complete head-to-toe physical exam
- Immunizations, when needed
- Hearing check
- Vision check
- Lab tests, when needed
- Checks on development and growth
- Oral health screening and a referral to the dentist
- Time to ask questions and get answers about your child's health, behavior and development
- Time to discuss your child’s thoughts, feelings and relationships
How often should I take my child for a checkup?
How often a child gets a health checkup depends on the child's age. Visits are recommended at these ages:
- Between birth and 1 month
- At 2, 4, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 24 and 30 months
- Every year starting at age 3 through age 20
- More often if needed
- A child should get regular dental checkups starting at the eruption of the first tooth or by age 1
Why are C&TC visits important?
- Regular checkups help keep children healthy
- Screenings can detect possible concerns early
- Tests and follow up are performed if needed
- Healthy children are ready to learn and reach their full potential

For more helpful information

See our Child and Teen Checkups publications and resources webpage.