You must make sure the child receives a Texas Health Steps medical checkup within 30 days of coming into DFPS custody. The Texas Health Steps medical checkup is a comprehensive physical and medical assessment for the child. 

The child must also receive regular preventive healthcare. Texas Health Steps medical checkups are specific appointments that meet recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics. Children under age 3 need these checkups:

• 3 to 5 days after birth. 
• 2 weeks after birth. 
• At the following months after birth:  2, 4, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 24, and 30. 

Children ages 3–20 years old need Texas Health Steps medical checkups at least once a year (within one year after the last checkup and no later than the child’s next birthday). 

If the child is 6 months old or older, he or she must also receive a Texas Health Steps dental checkup scheduled within 60 days of coming into DFPS’s legal custody. To schedule a checkup, call STAR Health Member Services at 1-866-912-6283.  If the child is younger than 6 months old, he or she must have a Texas Health Steps dental checkup within 30 days of turning 6 months old. The child should have a Texas Health Steps dental checkup every 6 months until he or she turns 21 years old. 

NOTE: A regular physical exam cannot take the place of a Texas Health Steps medical checkup. A Texas Health Steps checkup includes a physical exam and other assessments.

Page 2