Clarification Regarding Providers’ Use of the Diagnostic Manual When Assessing Children Under the Age of Six (6)
In the Provider Bulletin from January 27, 2026, MO HealthNet (MHD) announced the revised diagnostic criteria applicable to children under six (6) years of age in 13 CSR 70-98.015. More specifically, MHD now recommends and prefers that providers of behavioral health counseling and psychotherapy services use the Diagnostic Classification of Mental Health and Developmental Disorders of Infancy and Early Childhood (DC:0-5™) when assessing children under the age of six (6) years. MHD will allow for the use of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorder, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR™) when assessing children zero through five (0-5) years of age until January 1, 2029, at which time the DC:0-5™ will be required.
MHD would like to clarify that this rule change applies to providers of behavioral health counseling and psychotherapy services and not to other providers who may diagnose behavioral health conditions in children, such as pediatricians, family practice physicians, etc.
For questions regarding this update, contact MHD.Education@dss.mo.gov.