ICD-10 Coding for Autistic Disorder(F84.0)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Autistic Disorder. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Autistic Disorder
F84-F84.9Primary Range
Pervasive developmental disorders
This range includes all pervasive developmental disorders, with F84.0 specifically for autistic disorder.
Disorders of psychological development
Includes related developmental disorders that may co-occur with autism, such as language disorders.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for autistic disorder
Essential facts and insights about Autistic Disorder
Primary ICD-10-CM Code for autistic disorder
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of both social communication deficits and repetitive behaviors.
Applicable To
- Childhood autism
- Infantile autism
- Kanner's syndrome
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Persistent deficits in social communication and interaction
- Restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities
- Symptoms present in early developmental period
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification with Asperger's syndrome
- Inadequate documentation of symptom onset
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation supports both social and behavioral criteria.
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.
Asperger's syndrome
F84.5Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Autistic Disorder to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code F84.0.
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 from DSM-5 criteria., Include detailed examples of behaviors.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate representation of patient conditions.
Mitigation Strategy
Use F84.0 for classic autism and F84.5 for Asperger's syndrome separately.
Impact
Improper sequencing of primary and ancillary codes.
Mitigation Strategy
Follow payer-specific guidelines for code sequencing.
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 Autistic Disorder, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Autistic Disorder
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Autistic Disorder. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Initial Diagnostic Evaluation
Specialty: PediatricsRequired Elements
- Social communication deficits
- Repetitive behaviors
- Developmental history
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Autistic Disorder? Ask your questions below.