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ICD-10 Coding for Borderline Intellectual Functioning(R41.83)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Borderline Intellectual Functioning. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Low IQBorderline Cognitive Functioning

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Borderline Intellectual Functioning

R40-R46Primary Range

Symptoms and signs involving cognition, perception, emotional state and behavior

This range includes codes for cognitive and perceptual symptoms, including borderline intellectual functioning.

Intellectual disabilities

This range is relevant for differentiating intellectual disabilities from borderline intellectual functioning.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for borderline intellectual functioning

Essential facts and insights about Borderline Intellectual Functioning

The ICD-10 code for borderline intellectual functioning is R41.83, applicable for IQ scores between 71 and 84 with adaptive deficits.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for borderline intellectual functioning

Borderline intellectual functioning
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • IQ between 71-84 with functional limitations

coding Criteria

  • Do not use as a principal diagnosis when another condition is present

Applicable To

  • IQ 71-84
  • Functional limitations in adaptive domains

Excludes

  • Intellectual disabilities (F70-F79)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • IQ test results showing scores between 71 and 84
  • Documentation of adaptive functioning deficits

Code-Specific Risks

  • Confusion with intellectual disability codes
  • Incorrect use as a principal diagnosis

Coding Notes

  • Ensure IQ and adaptive functioning are documented to support R41.83.

Ancillary Codes

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

Educational and occupational problems

Z55.8
Use to document educational or vocational limitations due to BIF.

Differential Codes

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

Mild intellectual disabilities

F70
Use F70 when IQ is 50-70 with adaptive deficits in two or more domains.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Borderline Intellectual Functioning to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R41.83.

Impact

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

Mitigation Strategy

Use specific IQ scores and adaptive functioning details.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to claim denials., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Query provider to confirm IQ and adaptive functioning details.

Impact

Lack of specific documentation can lead to audit issues.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure comprehensive documentation of IQ tests and adaptive deficits.

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 Borderline Intellectual Functioning, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Borderline Intellectual Functioning

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Borderline Intellectual Functioning. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Primary Care Assessment

Specialty: Primary Care

Required Elements

  • IQ test name and score
  • Adaptive deficits
  • Functional impact

Example Documentation

Borderline intellectual functioning (R41.83) - IQ: WAIS-IV 78, Adaptive deficits: Requires supervision for budgeting.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient isn’t very smart.
Good Documentation Example
WAIS-IV FSIQ 81 with deficits in working memory.
Explanation
The good example provides specific IQ scores and areas of deficit.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Borderline Intellectual Functioning? Ask your questions below.

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