​Independence Blue Cross (Independence) would like to remind providers that all pediatric patients should receive a valid developmental screening regardless of their risk level.

Guidelines for developmental screening and documentation

Providers are encouraged to follow the Bright Futures™ guidelines for developmental screening and documentation. Guidelines include:

• Complete formal screening for developmental delays at ages 9, 18, and 30 months even when there are no concerns. Screen more often if there are concerns or additional risk factors.
• Perform the screening using validated screening tools. Validated screening tools for developmental delays can be found on the Bright Futures website:
  
• Infancy
• Early childhood
• Use CPT^® code 96110 to report the completion of developmental screening using standardized and validated screening tools. 
• Add screening documentation to the member's chart and claim submissions.

In addition, providers are encouraged to follow the Bright Futures guidelines for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) screenings at ages 18 months and 24 months.

Resources

The following resources offer additional information on developmental screening recommendations:

• Independence Interventions and reminders website
• Check & Connect brochure: Recommendations to promote healthy childhood development.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Child Developmental Screening
• American Academy of Pediatrics article, “Promoting Optimal Development: Screening for Behavioral and Emotional Problems"

CPT Copyright 2017 American Medical Association. All rights reserved. CPT^® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association.

Independence Blue Cross is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.