MedicaidDocumentationMedium impact
Depression Screening and Follow-Up (DSF) Measure
L.A. Care Health Plan·CA · Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, General Practice +2 more·Medical Policy
Effective date
Jan 23, 2025
We identified it
Jun 20, 2026
Summary
L.A. Care Health Plan has issued new requirements for depression screening documentation and billing to improve HEDIS DSF measure compliance. Providers must use specific LOINC codes (44261-6 for PHQ-9, 55758-7 for PHQ-2) when submitting screening data and ensure positive screenings have follow-up within 30 days.
Action Required
Immediately: Update EMR systems to capture PHQ-9 and PHQ-2 screening scores with corresponding LOINC codes (44261-6 for PHQ-9, 55758-7 for PHQ-2). Submit required data elements (Member ID, DOB, service date, assessment score, LOINC codes) to IPAs without delay. Schedule follow-up visits within 30 days for positive screenings (PHQ-9 ≥10 or PHQ-2 ≥3) and bill with appropriate CPT codes. Note: Claims/encounters will not capture initial screening compliance - use proper data submission channels.