ICD-10 Coding for Decreased Hearing(H90.3, H91.21)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Decreased Hearing. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Decreased Hearing
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 testing confirms bilateral sensorineural loss. |
|
| H91.21 | Sudden idiopathic hearing loss, bilateral | Use for sudden onset hearing loss without identifiable cause. |
|
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 Decreased Hearing
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for decreased hearing
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Audiometry confirms bilateral sensorineural loss.
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Audiometry showing ≥30 dB loss at 500-4000 Hz in both ears
Code-Specific Risks
- Risk of under-coding if laterality is not specified.
Coding Notes
- Ensure audiometric results are documented to support sensorineural diagnosis.
H91.21 - Sudden idiopathic hearing loss, bilateral
Use for sudden onset hearing loss without identifiable cause.
Applicable To
- Sudden sensorineural hearing loss
Excludes
- Hearing loss due to known cause (e.g., trauma, ototoxic drugs)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Sudden onset ≤72 hours with audiogram confirming ≥30 dB loss in 3 consecutive frequencies
Coding Notes
Document sudden onset and audiometric confirmation.
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 Decreased Hearing 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 plans., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document which ear(s) are affected., Use specific codes for unilateral or bilateral loss.
Impact
Reimbursement: May result in lower reimbursement rates., Compliance: Increases risk of audit failure., Data Quality: Reduces accuracy of clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure audiometric and clinical details are documented to use specific codes.
Impact
High risk of audit if unspecified codes are used when specific details are available.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure thorough documentation of audiometric results and clinical 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 Decreased Hearing, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Decreased Hearing
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Decreased Hearing. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Documenting bilateral sensorineural hearing loss
Specialty: OtolaryngologyRequired Elements
- Patient history of hearing loss
- Audiometric test results
- Diagnosis and impact on daily activities
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Decreased Hearing? Ask your questions below.