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ICD-10 Coding for Autism Spectrum Disorder(F84.0)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Autism Spectrum Disorder. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

ASDAutistic DisorderPervasive Developmental DisorderAutismasperger's syndromeautistic spectrum

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Autism Spectrum Disorder

F84.0-F84.9Primary Range

Pervasive developmental disorders

This range includes all pervasive developmental disorders, with F84.0 specifically for Autistic Disorder.

Specific developmental disorders of speech and language

This range is relevant for documenting speech and language disorders often associated with ASD.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for autism spectrum disorder

Essential facts and insights about Autism Spectrum Disorder

The ICD-10 code for autism spectrum disorder is F84.0, used for confirmed diagnoses with documented social and behavioral deficits.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for autism spectrum disorder

Autistic disorder
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of social communication deficits and repetitive behaviors

documentation Criteria

  • Detailed documentation of DSM-5 criteria

Applicable To

  • Autism
  • Infantile autism

Excludes

  • Asperger's syndrome (F84.5)
  • Rett's syndrome (F84.2)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Deficits in social-emotional reciprocity
  • Restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrect sequencing with comorbid conditions
  • Missing severity level

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation includes DSM-5 criteria and severity levels.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Mixed receptive-expressive language disorder

F80.2
Use when language deficits are present alongside ASD.

Other symbolic dysfunctions

R48.8
Use for symbolic dysfunctions related to ASD.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Asperger's syndrome

F84.5
Use F84.5 for cases with intact language and normal cognitive development.

Social pragmatic communication disorder

F80.82
Use F80.82 when social communication deficits are present without repetitive behaviors.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Autism Spectrum Disorder to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code F84.0.

Impact

Clinical: Inadequate treatment planning, Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding guidelines, Financial: Potential claim denials

Mitigation Strategy

Always document severity level, Review DSM-5 criteria

Impact

Reimbursement: Claims may be denied due to conflicting codes., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding rules., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure F84.0 and F84.5 are not used together; choose based on clinical presentation.

Impact

Incorrect sequencing of primary and secondary codes.

Mitigation Strategy

Review payer-specific guidelines and ensure proper documentation.

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 Autism Spectrum Disorder, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Autism Spectrum Disorder

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Autism Spectrum Disorder. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Child with ASD and language delay

Specialty: Pediatrics

Required Elements

  • Diagnosis
  • Severity level
  • DSM-5 criteria
  • Comorbid conditions

Example Documentation

Diagnosis: Autism Spectrum Disorder (F84.0), Severity: Level 2, DSM-5 Criteria: Social deficits, repetitive behaviors.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Child has autism.
Good Documentation Example
Child diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (F84.0), exhibiting social communication deficits and repetitive behaviors.
Explanation
The good example provides specific DSM-5 criteria and coding details.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Autism Spectrum Disorder? Ask your questions below.

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