ICD-10 Coding for Dysgraphia(F81.81, R27.8)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Dysgraphia. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Dysgraphia
F81-F89Primary Range
Specific developmental disorders of scholastic skills
This range includes disorders related to learning and academic skills, such as dysgraphia.
Symptoms and signs involving the nervous and musculoskeletal systems
This range includes codes for motor coordination issues, relevant for motor dysgraphia.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| F81.81 | Specific learning disorder with impairment in written expression | Use when dysgraphia is primarily a language-based disorder affecting written expression. |
|
| R27.8 | Other lack of coordination | Use when dysgraphia is due to motor coordination issues without language impairment. |
|
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 dysgraphia
Essential facts and insights about Dysgraphia
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for dysgraphia
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of language-based writing impairments
documentation Criteria
- Detailed assessment results supporting language impairment
Applicable To
- Language-based dysgraphia
Clinical Validation Requirements
- DASH-2 Copy Fast score ≤6th percentile
- TOWL-4 Composite ≤78
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification with motor dysgraphia
- Inadequate documentation of language impairment
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies language impairment and differentiates from motor issues.
R27.8 - Other lack of coordination
Use when dysgraphia is due to motor coordination issues without language impairment.
Applicable To
- Motor dysgraphia
Excludes
- Language-based dysgraphia (F81.81)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- DASH-2 Copy Fast score <10th percentile
- Beery VMI <85
Coding Notes
Document normal language testing to justify exclusion of F81.81.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Academic or educational problem
Z55.8Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Dysgraphia to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code F81.81.
Impact
Clinical: Misdiagnosis and inappropriate interventions., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Conduct comprehensive assessments, Document specific impairments
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Use F81.81 for language-based dysgraphia.
Impact
High audit risk if language impairment is not documented for F81.81.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure comprehensive language assessments are included in 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 Dysgraphia, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Dysgraphia
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Dysgraphia. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Language-based dysgraphia assessment
Specialty: PediatricsRequired Elements
- DASH-2 test results
- TOWL-4 scores
- Functional impact on academic performance
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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