ICD-10 Coding for Disability(F70, F84.0)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Disability. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Disability
F70-F79Primary Range
Intellectual Disabilities
This range covers various levels of intellectual disabilities, which are primary conditions in disability coding.
Pervasive and Specific Developmental Disorders
Includes autism spectrum disorders and other developmental disorders that may coexist with intellectual disabilities.
Borderline Intellectual Functioning
Used for cases with IQ scores between 71-84 without significant functional impairment.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| F70 | Mild Intellectual Disabilities | Use when a patient has an IQ between 50-70 and exhibits mild adaptive functioning deficits. |
|
| F84.0 | Autism Spectrum Disorder | Use when a patient exhibits core symptoms of autism spectrum disorder. |
|
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 intellectual disability
Essential facts and insights about Disability
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for disability
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- IQ score ≤70 with adaptive functioning deficits
Applicable To
- IQ 50-70
- Mild cognitive impairment
Excludes
- Specific developmental disorders (F80-F89)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- IQ score ≤70 confirmed by standardized testing
- Deficits in adaptive functioning
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification due to lack of comprehensive testing
Coding Notes
- Ensure IQ testing is documented and adaptive functioning is assessed.
F84.0 - Autism Spectrum Disorder
Use when a patient exhibits core symptoms of autism spectrum disorder.
Applicable To
- Autistic disorder
- Childhood autism
Excludes
- Rett's syndrome (F84.2)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Deficits in social communication
- Restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior
Coding Notes
Document specific social and behavioral symptoms.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Borderline Intellectual Functioning
R41.83Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Disability to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code F70.
Impact
Clinical: Inaccurate diagnosis and treatment planning., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials due to insufficient documentation.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure all IQ tests are documented with scores., Regular training on documentation standards.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Use specific codes for underlying conditions like hemiplegia or post-surgical status.
Impact
Incomplete documentation of intellectual disability assessments.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement regular audits and training sessions.
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 Disability, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Disability
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Disability. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Intellectual Disability Assessment
Specialty: PsychiatryRequired Elements
- IQ test results
- Adaptive functioning assessment
- Clinical observations
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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