ICD-10 Coding for Bilateral Hearing Loss(H90.3, H90.0, H90.6)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Bilateral Hearing Loss. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Bilateral Hearing Loss
H90-H91Primary Range
Hearing loss
This range includes all types of hearing loss, including bilateral, conductive, sensorineural, and mixed types.
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 audiometric tests confirm bilateral sensorineural loss. |
|
| H90.0 | Bilateral conductive hearing loss | Use when conductive loss is confirmed by audiometry. |
|
| H90.6 | Bilateral mixed conductive and sensorineural hearing loss | Use when both conductive and sensorineural components are present. |
|
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 bilateral sensorineural hearing loss
Essential facts and insights about Bilateral Hearing Loss
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for bilateral hearing loss
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Audiometry shows bilateral sensorineural loss
Applicable To
- Sensorineural hearing loss in both ears
Excludes
- Unilateral sensorineural hearing loss
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Audiometry showing PTA ≥40 dB in both ears
- Speech discrimination ≤80%
Code-Specific Risks
- Risk of using without audiometric confirmation
Coding Notes
- Ensure audiometric confirmation is documented.
H90.0 - Bilateral conductive hearing loss
Use when conductive loss is confirmed by audiometry.
Applicable To
- Conductive hearing loss in both ears
Excludes
- Unilateral conductive hearing loss
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Air-bone gap ≥15 dB bilaterally
- Normal OAEs/cochlear microphonics
Coding Notes
Document air-bone gap and normal cochlear function.
H90.6 - Bilateral mixed conductive and sensorineural hearing loss
Use when both conductive and sensorineural components are present.
Applicable To
- Mixed hearing loss in both ears
Excludes
- Unilateral mixed hearing loss
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Presence of both air-bone gap and elevated bone thresholds
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation of both conductive and sensorineural components.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Bilateral 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 inappropriate treatment decisions., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure audiometry is performed and results are documented., Review documentation for completeness before submission.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to reduced reimbursement rates., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of patient records.
Mitigation Strategy
Use specific codes like H90.3, H90.0, or H90.6 based on audiometric findings.
Impact
High risk of audit if unspecified codes are used without justification.
Mitigation Strategy
Use specific codes based on documented audiometric findings.
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 Bilateral Hearing Loss, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Bilateral Hearing Loss
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Bilateral Hearing Loss. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Bilateral Mixed Hearing Loss
Specialty: OtolaryngologyRequired Elements
- Chief complaint
- Audiometric test results
- Diagnosis
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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