ICD-10 Coding for Hearing Difficulty(H90.3, H91.90)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Hearing Difficulty. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Hearing Difficulty
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 hearing loss. |
|
| H91.90 | Unspecified hearing loss | Use when hearing loss is documented but lacks specificity in type or laterality. |
|
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 Hearing Difficulty
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for hearing difficulty
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Bilateral SNHL confirmed by audiogram
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Audiogram showing bilateral SNHL ≥40 dB PTA
Code-Specific Risks
- Ensure audiometric confirmation to avoid misclassification.
Coding Notes
- Document audiometric findings clearly to support the diagnosis.
H91.90 - Unspecified hearing loss
Use when hearing loss is documented but lacks specificity in type or laterality.
Applicable To
- Hearing loss NOS
Excludes
- Specific types of hearing loss (H90.0-H90.8)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Hearing loss noted but type and laterality not specified
Coding Notes
Aim to specify type and laterality to avoid using unspecified codes.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Encounter for hearing examination following failed hearing screening
Z01.810Differential 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 Hearing Difficulty 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: Increases risk of audit and compliance issues., Financial: Potential for denied claims due to insufficient documentation.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure audiometric testing is performed and results are documented., Use templates to guide comprehensive documentation.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to lower reimbursement rates., Compliance: Increases risk of audit due to lack of specificity., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of health records.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure audiometric data is complete and specify type and laterality of hearing loss.
Impact
High risk of audit when unspecified codes are used without justification.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure all hearing loss diagnoses are supported by specific audiometric data.
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 Hearing Difficulty, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Hearing Difficulty
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Hearing Difficulty. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Bilateral Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Specialty: AudiologyRequired Elements
- Patient history
- Audiometric test results
- Diagnosis
- Treatment plan
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Hearing Difficulty? Ask your questions below.