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In 2015, Independence reminded Keystone Health Plan East practitioners of the importance of testing children enrolled in the Pennsylvania Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) for Elevated Blood Lead Levels (EBLL). This year, we again would like to remind you that some of our CHIP population may continue to reside in homes that place them at risk for EBLLs. As such, we're following up to ask that you continue to test CHIP members for EBLLs, and to do so before their second birthday.
The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (Commonwealth) and Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS®) specifications state that all children enrolled in CHIP should receive a test for EBLLs. CHIP members should receive at least one lead capillary or venous blood test before their second birthday:
- The first test should be done between ages 9 and 12 months.
- The second test should be done prior to 24 months, and thereafter based on risk.
The Commonwealth states that children enrolled in CHIP should follow the same guidelines for lead testing as children enrolled in the Medicaid program. They should receive testing for EBLLs regardless of risk level. A risk assessment of the children's environment should also be performed at 6 months, between 9 and 18 months, then annually from ages 3 – 6 with testing, as appropriate.
Recognizing your recommendation has tremendous influence on the parents/guardians of your pediatric patients and their decision to seek lead testing and screening information for their children, we are requesting your participation in ensuring all CHIP members receive lead testing before their second birthdate.
Identifying CHIP members
We've made it easier for your practice to identify CHIP members by including the identifying words "PA Kids" on the front of Independence ID cards, as shown in the sample CHIP ID card below.
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Resources
The following resources provide additional information regarding lead testing recommendations:
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