Information for healthcare providers and laboratories | Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment

Colorado recommends targeted blood lead testing based on responses to a risk-based questionnaire for parents.

Testing resources

The If Yes, then Test questionnaire provides lead screening recommendations for healthcare providers. If a patient answers “yes” or “not sure” to any question, lead testing is recommended.
View the LeadCare II Analyzer Quick Guide for steps on how to collect capillary (finger- or heel-prick) specimens, how to troubleshoot the machine, and when to perform confirmatory venous testing.
View the Guidelines for the identification and management of lead exposure during pregnancy and infant feeding for lead screening recommendations and blood lead testing during pregnancy, medical and environmental management to reduce infant exposure, and infant feeding guidance based on parent’s blood lead level.

Reporting lead test results

All providers and laboratories performing blood lead tests are required to report capillary and venous test results to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.

Under age 18	Over age 18
Report results ≥ 3.5 within 7 days. Report results < 3.5 within 30 days	Report results ≥ 3.5 within 30 days.

How to report lead test results

For providers, clinics, and LPHAs	For laboratories
Submit the results using the Colorado Disease Reporting Portal (Reportal). For assistance, review our Reportal guidance for lead case submissions. If the Reportal is not an option for your clinic or lab, please report lead tests using our online form.	Make sure you are set up for Electronic Lab Reporting by contacting Contact CDPHE's Electronic Laboratory Reporting Coordinator to ensure you are set up for Electronic Lab Reporting. Andrew.Horvath@state.co.us or 303-692-2025.

View CDPHE’s recommended case management and follow-up guidelines.

Submit results using Reportal

Submit results using our online form

Reporting questions? Email cdphe_leadreports@state.co.us

If you or your lab are experiencing any issues with Reportal please reach out to our support team at CDPHE_Reportal_Support@state.co.us

Case management and follow-up

Colorado follows CDC guidance on case management for lead.

Please refer to the guidance found in Preventing and Treating Lead Poisoning in Children for recommended case management and follow-up actions.

Additional case management resources

Health Alert Network (HAN) Advisories

HAN Advisory - High blood lead levels in children consuming recalled cinnamon applesauce pouches
HAN Advisory - Chromium in recalled cinnamon applesauce products

Contact

For questions about lead poisoning: ToxCall, (303) 692-2606 or cdphe_toxcall@state.co.us

For lead testing, reporting questions, and requests for fact sheets in other languages: cdphe_leadreports@state.co.us