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ICD-10 Coding for Nonverbal Learning Disorder(F81.9)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Nonverbal Learning Disorder. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

NVLDNonverbal Learning Disability

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Nonverbal Learning Disorder

F80-F89Primary Range

Pervasive and specific developmental disorders

This range includes developmental disorders such as NVLD, which is coded under F81.9.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for Nonverbal Learning Disorder

Essential facts and insights about Nonverbal Learning Disorder

The ICD-10 code for Nonverbal Learning Disorder is F81.9, used for developmental disorder of scholastic skills, unspecified.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for nonverbal

Developmental disorder of scholastic skills, unspecified
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Documented VIQ-PIQ discrepancy and absence of ASD traits

coding Criteria

  • Use as secondary code if ASD is present

Applicable To

  • Nonverbal Learning Disorder

Excludes

  • Autism Spectrum Disorder (F84.0)
  • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (F90.9)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Psychoeducational testing showing a significant discrepancy between verbal and performance IQ
  • Standardized tests like WISC-V and WIAT-IV
  • Exclusion of hearing impairments

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly using F81.9 as a principal diagnosis when ASD is present

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation includes specific deficits and standardized test results.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, unspecified

F90.9
Use when NVLD coexists with ADHD symptoms.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Autism Spectrum Disorder

F84.0
Presence of social communication deficits and restricted/repetitive behaviors.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Nonverbal Learning Disorder to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code F81.9.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to misdiagnosis or inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Use specific language and standardized test results, Ensure all relevant symptoms are documented

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to claim denials., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate representation of patient conditions.

Mitigation Strategy

Use F84.0 as the principal code and F81.9 as secondary.

Impact

Incorrect sequencing of F81.9 and F84.0.

Mitigation Strategy

Review coding guidelines for developmental disorders.

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 Nonverbal Learning Disorder, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Nonverbal Learning Disorder

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Nonverbal Learning Disorder. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Neuropsychological Evaluation

Specialty: Psychology

Required Elements

  • Cognitive profile
  • Functional impacts
  • Rule outs

Example Documentation

COGNITIVE PROFILE: Verbal Comprehension Index: 115 (Superior) Perceptual Reasoning Index: 82 (Low Average)

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient has nonverbal learning issues.
Good Documentation Example
Patient demonstrates a 30-point discrepancy between verbal and performance IQ.
Explanation
The good example provides specific test results and quantifies the learning issues.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Nonverbal Learning Disorder? Ask your questions below.

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