Based on the Arkansas Medicaid RA announcement effective July 1, 2025, procedure code 96112 U6 (Comprehensive Autism Evaluation, EIDT setting) does require an order/prescription from a physician or licensed practitioner authorized to order the evaluation.

Regarding whether a separate prescription is needed:
– If the child already has a therapy prescription on file, review whether the prescription language is broad enough to cover evaluation services, or if it is limited to treatment only.
– Most providers obtained a specific physician’s order for the Comprehensive Autism Evaluation, separate from the ongoing therapy prescription.
– Contact the child’s physician early to explain the new code and request an evaluation order.

Additional considerations raised by providers:
– Prior authorization from the PASSE is likely required — confirm before scheduling.
– The CARS (Childhood Autism Rating Scale) is among the tools STs may use, but the “Comprehensive Autism Evaluation” as billed under 96112 U6 may have specific component requirements — review the RA and contact DHS Provider Assistance for the full documentation requirements.
– Contact your PASSE care coordinator to confirm their specific authorization process for this new code.