ICD-10 Coding for Sensorineural Hearing Loss(H90.3, H90.41, H90.A21)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Sensorineural Hearing Loss. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Sensorineural Hearing Loss
H90-H91Primary Range
Hearing loss
This range includes all types of hearing loss, with specific codes for sensorineural 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 both ears are affected by sensorineural hearing loss. |
|
| H90.41 | Unilateral sensorineural hearing loss, right ear, with unrestricted hearing on the contralateral side | Use when the right ear is affected and the left ear has normal hearing. |
|
| H90.A21 | Unilateral sensorineural hearing loss, right ear, with restricted hearing on the contralateral side | Use when the right ear is affected and the left ear has any degree of hearing loss. |
|
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 Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for sensorineural hearing loss
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Bilateral sensorineural thresholds >25 dB HL
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Audiometry confirming bilateral sensorineural thresholds >25 dB HL
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrectly coding as unilateral when both ears are affected.
Coding Notes
- Ensure audiometric confirmation of bilateral loss.
H90.41 - Unilateral sensorineural hearing loss, right ear, with unrestricted hearing on the contralateral side
Use when the right ear is affected and the left ear has normal hearing.
Applicable To
- Right ear nerve deafness with normal left ear
Excludes
- Conductive hearing loss (H90.0-H90.2)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Audiometry confirming right ear sensorineural thresholds >25 dB HL
Coding Notes
Document contralateral ear status clearly.
H90.A21 - Unilateral sensorineural hearing loss, right ear, with restricted hearing on the contralateral side
Use when the right ear is affected and the left ear has any degree of hearing loss.
Applicable To
- Right ear nerve deafness with left ear hearing loss
Excludes
- Conductive hearing loss (H90.0-H90.2)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Audiometry confirming right ear sensorineural thresholds >25 dB HL and left ear hearing loss
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation of contralateral ear hearing loss.
Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Conductive hearing loss, bilateral
H90.0Unilateral sensorineural hearing loss, left ear, with unrestricted hearing on the contralateral side
H90.42Unilateral sensorineural hearing loss, left ear, with restricted hearing on the contralateral side
H90.A22Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Sensorineural Hearing Loss 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 incorrect treatment plans., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document the status of the contralateral ear., Use templates to ensure completeness.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to claim denials or reduced reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Decreases the accuracy of health data.
Mitigation Strategy
Always use the most specific code available for the condition.
Impact
High risk of audit if unspecified codes are used when specific codes are available.
Mitigation Strategy
Educate providers on the importance of specific coding.
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 Sensorineural Hearing Loss, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Sensorineural Hearing Loss. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Unilateral SNHL with normal contralateral ear
Specialty: OtolaryngologyRequired Elements
- Patient history
- Audiometric test results
- Laterality and contralateral ear status
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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