Updated blood lead reference value for children

Dec. 2021Important Notices

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently updated its blood lead reference value (BLRV) from 5 µg/dL to 3.5 µg/dL in response to a recommendation by the Lead Exposure Prevention and Advisory Committee (LEPAC).

The BLRV aims to identify children with higher levels of lead in their blood compared to most children, based on the 97.5th percentile of the blood lead level (BLL) distribution in U.S. children ages 1 to 5 years.1 However, the CDC states that there is no safe BLL in children and that even low levels of lead in blood can affect learning and academic achievement and have permanent effects. It is critical for providers to partner with parents and caregivers to help prevent exposure and lower a child’s lead level, if necessary. To connect members with case management and for environmental lead investigation support, please contact the UPMC Pediatric Care Management Department. You can email a referral to pedscasemanagement@upmc.edu or call 1-866-778-6073 and select “pediatrics.”

Learn more
For more information about BLL in children, visit cdc.gov/nceh/lead/prevention/blood-lead-levels.htm. You can also view the UPMC Health Plan Lead Screening Provider Tip Sheet.

Source
1Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. CDC updates blood lead reference value for children. Last reviewed Oct. 28, 2021. Accessed Nov. 2, 2021. cdc.gov/media/releases/2021/p1028-blood-lead.html


Recent Announcements

Understanding available resources for substance misuse and addiction

Information available on the internet can be overwhelming when searching on the topic of substance misuse and addiction. UPMC Health Plan has a dedicated webpage containing information and links to treatment service options, harm reduction services, and other supports. The webpage includes local, state, and national resources to help streamline the search process for members and their families who may be experiencing challenges related to substance misuse and addiction, and for providers who may be looking for information on how to best support their patients.
Aug. 2025Important Notices

The importance of PRD forms for complex patients and staying updated on changes

Personal representative designation (PRD) forms are critical to the care process for patients and providers alike. Not only do PRDs support accurate, efficient, and compliant patient care—they also streamline administrative processes.
Aug. 2025Important Notices

Important announcement: UPMC Health Plan retires MP.PA.147

This communication is in regards to UPMC Health Plan Policy MP.PA.147 – Diagnostic and Surveillance Colonoscopy, 18 Years Old and Older. UPMC Health Plan previously communicated that the prior authorization requirement under this policy would be paused until Sept. 1, 2025. However, policy MP.PA.147 has been retired, and this policy will no longer be implemented or active.
Aug. 2025Important Notices