ICD-10 Coding for Aphasia(R47.01, I69.320, G31.01)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Aphasia. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Aphasia
R47.0-R47.9Primary Range
Speech disturbances, including aphasia
This range includes codes for various speech disturbances, with R47.01 specifically for aphasia.
Sequelae of cerebrovascular disease
This range includes codes for conditions resulting from cerebrovascular events, often used in conjunction with aphasia codes.
Other degenerative diseases of nervous system, not elsewhere classified
Includes codes for primary progressive aphasia, a neurodegenerative condition.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| R47.01 | Aphasia | Use when aphasia is present without a known cerebrovascular cause. |
|
| I69.320 | Aphasia following cerebral infarction | Use when aphasia is a sequela of a cerebrovascular event. |
|
| G31.01 | Primary progressive aphasia | Use for neurodegenerative causes of aphasia. |
|
Clinical Decision Support
Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for aphasia
Essential facts and insights about Aphasia
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for aphasia
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of language impairment confirmed by SLP
documentation Criteria
- Explicit mention of aphasia type and etiology
Applicable To
- Language disorder
Excludes
- Dysphasia (R47.02)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Diagnosis by a speech-language pathologist
- Standardized assessment results
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrectly coding resolved aphasia
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies type and cause of aphasia.
I69.320 - Aphasia following cerebral infarction
Use when aphasia is a sequela of a cerebrovascular event.
Applicable To
- Post-stroke aphasia
Excludes
- Aphasia not due to cerebrovascular disease (R47.01)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Imaging confirming cerebrovascular event
- Neurology consult note linking aphasia to event
Coding Notes
Ensure cerebrovascular event is coded first.
G31.01 - Primary progressive aphasia
Use for neurodegenerative causes of aphasia.
Applicable To
- Neurodegenerative aphasia
Excludes
- Aphasia due to stroke (I69.3-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- MRI showing temporal atrophy
- Neuropsychological testing
Coding Notes
Document neurodegenerative etiology clearly.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Aphasia to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R47.01.
Impact
Clinical: Misleading treatment plans., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Use specific language assessments, Consult with SLP
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate patient records.
Mitigation Strategy
Confirm current status of aphasia before coding.
Impact
Reimbursement: May affect DRG assignment and payment., Compliance: Risk of audit findings., Data Quality: Lack of specificity in records.
Mitigation Strategy
Specify laterality and type of aphasia.
Impact
Using unspecified codes increases audit risk.
Mitigation Strategy
Always specify type and cause of aphasia.
Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Aphasia, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Aphasia
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Aphasia. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Acute care post-stroke
Specialty: NeurologyRequired Elements
- Patient history
- Imaging results
- SLP assessment
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Aphasia? Ask your questions below.