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02-13-2026 Tobacco Use Screening Cessation Intervention IM IE LA OC SAC SD

Molina Healthcare·CA·Provider Bulletin
Effective date
Not stated
We identified it
Jun 19, 2026
Days to comply

Summary

Molina Healthcare of California implemented a new HEDIS quality measure (TSC-E) requiring providers to screen all patients ages 12+ for tobacco use at every visit and provide cessation interventions for positive screenings. Providers must document screening results and interventions using specific codes to meet quality measure requirements.

Action Required

Action needed
Immediately: Update workflow to screen all patients 12+ for tobacco use at every visit. Document screening results using LOINC code 72166-2 with appropriate value sets. For positive tobacco users, provide cessation intervention and document with ICD-10-CM code Z71.6 for counseling or prescribe FDA-approved cessation medications. Update EMR templates to capture required documentation. Refer tobacco users to Kick It California quitlines using provided phone numbers or online referral system at kickitca.org/patient-referral.

Affected Billing Codes

Z71.6