Published Date: 2025-12-11
Highmark Wholecare encourages providers to prioritize and integrate comprehensive pediatric screening for Tobacco, Alcohol, and Drug use to empower early identification and support for our youth.
Providers should incorporate this discussion as part of routine anticipatory guidance and conduct screenings using a validated screening tool for Tobacco, alcohol or drug use beginning at age 11 through the age of 20.
Billing
All Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment (EPSDT) services must be reported with the age-appropriate evaluation and management code along with the EP modifier.
Providers should use 96160 Tobacco, Alcohol and Drug Use Assessment.
References:
These codes are not all encompassing and use does not guarantee payment. They are intended as a guide to provide education around appropriate screenings and coding as part of the EPSDT program.