ICD-10 Coding for Deafness(H90.3, H91.2)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Deafness. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Deafness
H90-H91Primary Range
Hearing loss
This range includes codes for different types of hearing loss, including conductive, sensorineural, and mixed hearing loss.
Encounter for examination of ears and hearing without abnormal findings
This code is used for normal hearing exams and is relevant for ruling out 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 audiometric testing confirms bilateral sensorineural hearing loss. |
|
| H91.2 | Sudden idiopathic hearing loss | Use for sudden hearing loss with no identifiable cause. |
|
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 Deafness
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for deafness
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Audiogram showing bilateral sensorineural loss
Applicable To
- Presbycusis
Excludes
- Conductive hearing loss
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Audiogram confirms bilateral sensorineural loss ≥40 dB at 2k-4k Hz
Code-Specific Risks
- Ensure laterality is specified to avoid denials.
Coding Notes
- Ensure audiometric results are documented to support the diagnosis.
H91.2 - Sudden idiopathic hearing loss
Use for sudden hearing loss with no identifiable cause.
Applicable To
- Sudden deafness
Excludes
- Hearing loss due to known causes
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Sudden onset <72hrs, no identifiable cause, pure-tone avg. ≥30 dB decline
Coding Notes
Ensure audiometric confirmation within 72 hours of onset.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Deafness 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 inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document which ear is affected.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to claim denials or reduced reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of health records.
Mitigation Strategy
Always specify the type and laterality of hearing loss.
Impact
Use of unspecified codes when specific codes are available.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation supports specific code selection.
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 Deafness, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Deafness
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Deafness. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Audiologic evaluation for hearing loss
Specialty: AudiologyRequired Elements
- Subjective history of hearing loss
- Audiometric test results
- Diagnosis and plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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