ICD-10 Coding for Hearing Issues(H90.3, H91.0)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Hearing Issues. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Hearing Issues
H90-H91Primary Range
Hearing loss
This range includes codes for different types of hearing loss, such as conductive, sensorineural, and mixed hearing loss.
Other disorders of ear, not elsewhere classified
This range includes codes for conditions like tinnitus and hyperacusis, which may accompany hearing loss.
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. |
|
| H91.0 | Ototoxic hearing loss | Use when hearing loss is confirmed to be due to ototoxic medication. |
|
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 Issues
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for hearing issues
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Audiogram confirms bilateral sensorineural loss.
Applicable To
- Bilateral SNHL
Excludes
- Conductive hearing loss
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Audiogram showing bilateral sensorineural loss
Code-Specific Risks
- Ensure audiogram data supports bilateral loss.
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies sensorineural type and bilateral involvement.
H91.0 - Ototoxic hearing loss
Use when hearing loss is confirmed to be due to ototoxic medication.
Applicable To
- Hearing loss due to ototoxic drugs
Excludes
- Hearing loss due to other causes
Clinical Validation Requirements
- History of ototoxic drug use
- Audiometric evidence of hearing loss
Coding Notes
Sequence ototoxicity code before drug code.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Adverse effects of drugs
T36-T50Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Hearing Issues to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code H90.3.
Impact
Clinical: Misrepresentation of patient's condition., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Use symptom codes like R42 or H93.1x when symptoms are present.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Only code as impacted if cerumen fully obstructs the ear canal.
Impact
Using Z01.10 without audiometric confirmation.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure audiogram results are documented when using Z01.10.
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 Issues, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Hearing Issues
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Hearing Issues. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Bilateral Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Specialty: OtolaryngologyRequired Elements
- Patient history
- Audiogram results
- Physical examination findings
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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