can i bill when using the spot screener?
Any of these are an adequate attempt at screening vision so billing for a complete iep assessment is okay:
- It's not mandatory to utilize a visual acuity screening if another method is done, such as use of a photoscreener. Ed Code 49455 states students will be assessed for visual acuity, including near vision. 2019 CDE guidelines state the addition of instrument based equipment for vision screening may be applicable in more difficult to screen populations.
- Best practice is to assess for visual acuity using evidenced-based pediatric optotypes per 2019 CDE Vision Screening Guidelines or McDowell Functional Vision Screening
- In addition to screening visual acuity, use of an instrument based screening tool is may be a benefit for a more comprehensive assessment
- If student is unable to do either visual acuity or photoscreener and something like tracking of an object or stating "unable to screen" with any of the methods mentioned, include this info in the report. Documentation should include “unable to obtain results” stating all types of screening tools attempted including visual acuity, instrument based screening. “Student appears to have functional vision” OR “student has functional vision utilizing question based instrument with parent input”. “Student able to track object”.
- Hearing screening is also the same because the attempt(s) have been made
who can screen with the spot screener in the school setting?
Only the following persons shall conduct vision screening:
1. Duly qualified supervisors of health employed by the school district or COE.2. A registered nurse who holds
both (1) a license from the appropriate California board or agency; and
(2) a health and development credential, a standard designated service credential with a specialization in health, a health services credential as a school nurse, or a school nurse services credential.
3. Certificated school district or county employees who hold a teaching credential and are qualified by training, including satisfactory completion of (1) six (6) hours of vision screening (5 CCR, EC Section 592); or (2) an accredited college or university course in vision screening of at least one semester unit.
1. Duly qualified supervisors of health employed by the school district or COE.2. A registered nurse who holds
both (1) a license from the appropriate California board or agency; and
(2) a health and development credential, a standard designated service credential with a specialization in health, a health services credential as a school nurse, or a school nurse services credential.
3. Certificated school district or county employees who hold a teaching credential and are qualified by training, including satisfactory completion of (1) six (6) hours of vision screening (5 CCR, EC Section 592); or (2) an accredited college or university course in vision screening of at least one semester unit.