Screening for developmental handicaps in early childhood

This code identifies encounters focused on proactive screening for potential developmental delays or disabilities in young children. It signifies a preventive health measure aimed at early detection of conditions that could impact a child's physical, cognitive, or social development.

Apply this code for routine well-child visits where standardized developmental screening tools (e.g., ASQ, Denver II) are administered to assess for developmental milestones. It is appropriate when the primary purpose of the visit or a significant component of it is to screen for developmental handicaps in asymptomatic children.

• Use this code for screening purposes only; if a developmental delay is identified or suspected, a more specific diagnosis code should be used.
• This code is typically paired with an E/M code for the well-child visit.
• Ensure documentation clearly supports the performance of developmental screening.