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ICD-10 Coding for Learning Disability(F70, R41.83)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Learning Disability. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Intellectual DisabilityDevelopmental Delay

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Learning Disability

F70-F79Primary Range

Intellectual Disabilities

Primary range for coding intellectual disabilities based on severity.

Borderline Intellectual Functioning

Used for individuals with IQ scores between 70 and 84.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
F70Mild intellectual disabilitiesUse when IQ is between 50-69 and adaptive deficits are present.
  • IQ score between 50-69
  • Adaptive behavior deficits
R41.83Borderline intellectual functioningUse when IQ is between 70-84 without significant adaptive deficits.
  • IQ score between 70-84

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 learning disability

Essential facts and insights about Learning Disability

The ICD-10 code for learning disability varies by severity: F70 for mild, F71 for moderate, F72 for severe, and F73 for profound intellectual disabilities.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for learning disability

Mild intellectual disabilities
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • IQ score between 50-69 with adaptive deficits.

Applicable To

  • IQ 50-69

Excludes

  • Specific learning disorders (F81.-)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • IQ score between 50-69
  • Adaptive behavior deficits

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification if IQ is not documented.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure IQ testing is documented.

Ancillary Codes

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

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, predominantly hyperactive type

F90.1
Use when ADHD is a comorbid condition.

Differential Codes

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

Specific reading disorder

F81.0
Used when specific learning disorder is present without intellectual disability.

Mild intellectual disabilities

F70
Use F70 if IQ is below 70.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Learning Disability to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code F70.

Impact

Clinical: Inaccurate diagnosis leading to inappropriate care plans., Regulatory: Potential audit failures., Financial: Claim denials due to insufficient documentation.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure adaptive behavior assessments are completed and documented.

Impact

Reimbursement: Claims may be denied due to lack of supporting documentation., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate data reporting and analysis.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure IQ testing results are documented in the patient's record.

Impact

Lack of documented IQ testing can lead to audit issues.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure all IQ tests are documented with scores and dates.

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 Learning Disability, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Learning Disability

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Learning Disability. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Diagnosis of Mild Intellectual Disability

Specialty: Pediatrics

Required Elements

  • Patient history
  • IQ test results
  • Adaptive behavior assessment

Example Documentation

14yo male with IQ 62 (WAIS-IV), adaptive deficits in communication and self-care.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient has learning issues.
Good Documentation Example
Patient diagnosed with mild intellectual disability, IQ 62 (WAIS-IV), adaptive deficits in communication.
Explanation
The good example provides specific test results and adaptive deficits, supporting the diagnosis.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Learning Disability? Ask your questions below.

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