November 08, 2022

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) issued three preventive service recommendation statements – two revised statements and one new recommendation:.

• The USPSTF recommends screening for syphilis infection in asymptomatic, nonpregnant adolescents and adults who are at increased risk for infection. The updated recommendation is consistent with the prior 2016 recommendation and is effective for plan years beginning on or after September 27, 2023 (January 1, 2024 for calendar year plans).
• The USPSTF recommends screening for major depressive disorder (MDD) in adolescents aged 12 to 18 years who do not have a diagnosed depression disorder and who are not showing recognized signs or symptoms of depression. The updated recommendation is consistent with the prior 2016 recommendation and is effective for plan years beginning on or after October 11, 2023 (January 1, 2024 for calendar year plans).
• The USPSTF recommends screening for anxiety in children and adolescents aged 8 to 18 years who do not have a diagnosed anxiety disorder and who are not showing recognized signs or symptoms of anxiety. This is a new recommendation by the USPSTF and is effective for plan years beginning on or after October 11, 2023 (January 1, 2024 for calendar year plans).

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) requires that most group health plans cover all preventive services with an A or B rating from the USPSTF without cost sharing (i.e., no copay, coinsurance, or deductible). Group health plans (with few exceptions) must cover these services by the effective dates identified above.

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