MedicaidCoverageMedium impact
Addressing Childhood Obesity through the Health Children & Youth Program
Missouri Medicaid (MO HealthNet)·MO · Pediatrics, Family Medicine, Internal Medicine +1 more·Provider Notice
Effective date
Mar 31, 2026
We identified it
Jun 20, 2026
Summary
MO HealthNet has expanded coverage for childhood obesity services under the Healthy Children & Youth Program for members under age 21, including comprehensive screening, prevention services, behavioral interventions, and biopsychosocial treatment. Providers should review the HCY Provider Manual for specific coding and billing details for obesity-related services.
Action Required
By March 31, 2026: Providers treating MO HealthNet members under age 21 should review the HCY Provider Manual for specific coding, billing, and coverage details for obesity-related services. Update encounter forms to include BMI screening for pediatric patients and ensure documentation meets guideline-based care requirements for childhood obesity (BMI in 95th percentile). Consider incorporating family-based behavioral interventions and coordinate with behavioral health services when appropriate.