ICD-10 Coding for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)(F90.0, F90.9)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
F90.0-F90.9Primary Range
Behavioral and emotional disorders with onset usually occurring in childhood and adolescence
This range includes all specific types of ADHD, including inattentive, hyperactive, combined, and unspecified types.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| F90.0 | Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, predominantly inattentive type | Use when the patient exhibits inattentive symptoms without hyperactivity or impulsivity. |
|
| F90.9 | Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, unspecified type | Use when ADHD is diagnosed but specific subtype cannot be determined. |
|
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 inattentive ADHD
Essential facts and insights about Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for attention deficit
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- ≥6 inattentive symptoms documented
documentation Criteria
- Symptoms documented in multiple settings
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Presence of ≥6 inattentive symptoms for ≥6 months
- Impairment in ≥2 settings (e.g., school, home)
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification if hyperactive symptoms are present
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies the absence of hyperactive symptoms.
F90.9 - Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, unspecified type
Use when ADHD is diagnosed but specific subtype cannot be determined.
Applicable To
- ADHD, unspecified
Excludes
- F90.0
- F90.1
- F90.2
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Symptoms present but subtype unclear
Coding Notes
Document rationale for using an unspecified code.
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 Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code F90.0.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to misdiagnosis, Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards, Financial: Potential claim denials
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation specifies symptom duration, Use standardized rating scales
Impact
Reimbursement: May result in lower reimbursement rates, Compliance: Increases audit risk, Data Quality: Decreases specificity of clinical data
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation supports the specific subtype and use the appropriate code.
Impact
High audit risk if F90.9 is used without justification
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation supports the use of unspecified codes with clear rationale.
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 Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Pediatric ADHD Evaluation
Specialty: PediatricsRequired Elements
- Patient history
- Symptom checklist
- Rating scales
- Impact on daily functioning
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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