Testing for lead in children requires a blood test.

• One test at 12 months age.
• One test at 24 months age.
• One test between 3 and 6 years of age, if the child has never been tested

The Early Periodic Screenings, Diagnosis, and Treatment (EPSDT) mandate for children with Medicaid requires lead screening according to Federal law and Nevada Medicaid Policy.

EPSDT is a type of early intervention service, which focuses on preventive care for infants, children and adolescents. It’s a requirement that all children with Medicaid get an EPSDT screening.

“Lead Toxicity Screening – All children are considered at risk and must be screened for lead poisoning. CMS requires that all children receive a screening blood lead test at 12 months and 24 months of age. Children between the ages of 36 months and 72 months of age must receive a screening blood lead test if they have not been previously screened for lead poisoning. A blood lead test must be used when screening Medicaid-eligible children. A blood lead test result equal to or greater than 10 ug/dl obtained by capillary specimen (fingerstick) must be confirmed using a venous blood sample.”

In addition to the Federal mandate, Nevada’s Department of Health and Human Services states the following:

“Screening services (including examinations and diagnostics) do not require prior authorization. Ongoing treatment or services beyond the initial screening may require prior authorization based on specific program requirements. The following services are included in the screening exam and should not be billed separately: office visit, consultation, hematocrit, urinalysis dip stick, PPD or tine test, lead screening, objective vision and hearing.”