ICD-10 Coding for Impaired Cognition(G31.84, F02.81)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Impaired Cognition. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Impaired Cognition
G31.84Primary Range
Mild Cognitive Impairment, so stated
Primary code for idiopathic mild cognitive impairment.
Dementia in other diseases classified elsewhere with behavioral disturbance
Used for dementia with behavioral disturbances secondary to conditions like Parkinson's.
Attention and concentration deficit
Used for attention deficits, often in conjunction with cerebrovascular disease codes.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| G31.84 | Mild Cognitive Impairment, so stated | Use when cognitive impairment is present without a known etiology. |
|
| F02.81 | Dementia in other diseases classified elsewhere with behavioral disturbance | Use when dementia with behavioral disturbances is secondary to another condition. |
|
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 impaired cognition
Essential facts and insights about Impaired Cognition
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for impaired cognition
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Cognitive impairment without a known cause.
Applicable To
- Subjective/objective memory loss
- Intact ADLs
Excludes
- Dementia (F03.90)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- MoCA score 22/30
- MMSE score 24/30
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification if etiology is known but not documented.
Coding Notes
- Ensure cognitive testing results are documented.
F02.81 - Dementia in other diseases classified elsewhere with behavioral disturbance
Use when dementia with behavioral disturbances is secondary to another condition.
Applicable To
- Behavioral disturbances in dementia
Excludes
- Dementia without behavioral disturbance (F02.80)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Presence of behavioral disturbances
- Diagnosis of underlying condition like Parkinson's
Coding Notes
Ensure behavioral disturbances are documented.
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 Impaired Cognition to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code G31.84.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to misdiagnosis or inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for claim denials or audits.
Mitigation Strategy
Use specific language and scores., Include caregiver observations.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to claim denials., Compliance: Non-compliance with specificity requirements., Data Quality: Reduces data accuracy for clinical research.
Mitigation Strategy
Use specific codes like R41.840 for attention deficits.
Impact
Lack of specific documentation can lead to audits.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure all cognitive assessments are detailed and include specific scores.
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 Impaired Cognition, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Impaired Cognition
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Impaired Cognition. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Neurology Progress Note
Specialty: NeurologyRequired Elements
- Cognitive assessment
- Functional status
- Caregiver report
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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