ICD-10 Coding for Asymmetric Hearing Loss(H90.3, H90.A21)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Asymmetric Hearing Loss. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Asymmetric Hearing Loss
H90-H91Primary Range
Hearing loss
This range includes codes for different types of hearing loss, including asymmetric hearing loss.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| H90.3 | Bilateral sensorineural hearing loss | Use when asymmetric SNHL meets bilateral criteria despite asymmetry. |
|
| H90.A21 | Unilateral SNHL with contralateral restricted loss | Use when one ear has SNHL and the contralateral ear has conductive or mixed loss. |
|
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 asymmetric hearing loss
Essential facts and insights about Asymmetric Hearing Loss
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for asymmetric hearing loss
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Audiometric evidence of bilateral sensorineural hearing loss
Applicable To
- Asymmetric sensorineural hearing loss when bilateral criteria are met
Excludes
- Unilateral hearing loss
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Audiometric evidence of bilateral sensorineural hearing loss
- Asymmetry of ≥10 dB at three consecutive frequencies
Code-Specific Risks
- Potential for under-coding if asymmetry is not documented
Coding Notes
- Ensure bilateral criteria are documented to justify use of H90.3.
H90.A21 - Unilateral SNHL with contralateral restricted loss
Use when one ear has SNHL and the contralateral ear has conductive or mixed loss.
Applicable To
- Unilateral sensorineural hearing loss with contralateral conductive or mixed loss
Excludes
- Bilateral hearing loss
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Audiometric evidence of unilateral SNHL with contralateral conductive or mixed loss
Coding Notes
Ensure contralateral loss is documented to justify use of H90.A21.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Central auditory processing disorder
H93.25Differential 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 Asymmetric Hearing Loss to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code H90.3.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to misdiagnosis., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure detailed audiometric data is included., Verify documentation against coding guidelines.
Impact
Reimbursement: Potential denial of claims due to lack of specificity., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate representation of patient condition.
Mitigation Strategy
Document 'Asymmetric thresholds meet bilateral SNHL criteria per AAO-HNS guidelines'.
Impact
Inadequate documentation of hearing asymmetry can lead to audit issues.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure comprehensive audiometric data is documented.
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 Asymmetric Hearing Loss, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Asymmetric Hearing Loss
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Asymmetric Hearing Loss. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Otology Progress Note
Specialty: OtolaryngologyRequired Elements
- Audiometric Profile
- Asymmetry Criteria
- Etiological Indicators
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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