Lead Screening in Children (LSC) - EPSDT

HEDIS Measure

Lead Screening in Children (LSC) - EPSDT

Line of business: Medicaid

Data Collection Method:

Administrative (Claims)
Hybrid (HEDIS Chart Chase)
Supplemental Data Submission

• Standard – Electronic Clinical Data System (ECDS) Layout
• Non-Standard - Medical Record

Measure Description

Providers will have a compliance rate of greater than 80% for two consecutive six months periods for lead level tests.

Numerator Compliance

Required testing by the State of New Jersey at 12 and 24 months of age.

Blood lead screening and testing should be completed:

• 9 to 18 months of age (12 months preferably)
• 18 to 26 months of age (24 months preferably)
• 2 years 3 months to 6 years of age (if child was not tested before)

Best Practices

• Discuss the risks of not being tested, including the possibility of behavioral and cognitive issues
• Offer Saturday and walk-in appointments for lead testing
• Discuss the importance of early lead screening during both well and sick visits
• Stress that lead testing is mandatory in New Jersey for children under the age of 6 years old.
• Order the test at the appropriate age and ensure it is completed
• Follow up on open lab orders for lead screening before the second birthday
• Provide in-office testing
• Be sure chart documentation includes the date the test was performed AND the result or finding
• Educate parents that while the child may not be exposed at home, other environments may present a new risk
• Complete The Verbal Lead Risk Assessment starting at 6 months of age at every well visit to identify children at high risk
• Consider using Medtox Testing - a means of measuring blood lead levels using a capillary (finger stick) blood sample and filter paper in the office

Quality Value Set Directory Coding Tips

Lead Tests

NOTE: Providers are expected to surpass 80 percent compliance for two consecutive six-month periods for obtaining a lead screen prior to the child’s second birthday.