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ICD-10 Coding for Neurotic Depression(F34.1)

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

Also known as:

Dysthymic DisorderPersistent Depressive DisorderDepressive Neurosis

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Neurotic Depression

F30-F39Primary Range

Mood [affective] disorders

This range includes all mood disorders, with F34.1 specifically covering dysthymic disorder, which encompasses neurotic depression.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for neurotic depression

Essential facts and insights about Neurotic Depression

The ICD-10 code for neurotic depression is F34.1, used for chronic, low-grade depression lasting at least 2 years.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for neurotic depression

Dysthymic Disorder
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Symptoms persist for at least 2 years with no major depressive episodes.

documentation Criteria

  • Document the duration and chronic nature of symptoms.

Applicable To

  • Neurotic depression
  • Depressive personality disorder
  • Persistent anxiety depression

Excludes

  • Major depressive disorder (F32.x, F33.x)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Chronic low-grade depression lasting at least 2 years in adults
  • Symptoms include low energy, poor concentration, and sleep disturbances
  • No major depressive episodes during the first 2 years

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly using F32.9 for chronic cases
  • Not documenting the duration of symptoms

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies the chronic nature and duration of symptoms.

Ancillary Codes

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

Problems in relationship with spouse or partner

Z63.0
Use when relationship issues contribute to the depressive symptoms.

Disruption of family by separation or divorce

Z63.5
Use when family disruption is a contributing factor.

Differential Codes

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

Major Depressive Disorder, Single Episode

F32.x
Use F32.x for acute, severe depressive episodes.

Major Depressive Disorder, Recurrent

F33.x
Use F33.x for recurrent major depressive episodes.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Neurotic Depression to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code F34.1.

Impact

Clinical: Misdiagnosis of depression type., Regulatory: Non-compliance with ICD-10 documentation standards., Financial: Potential for incorrect billing and reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Use templates that prompt for duration details., Regular training on documentation standards.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to improper DRG assignment., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate representation of patient data.

Mitigation Strategy

Use F34.1 for chronic cases lasting at least 2 years.

Impact

Lack of documented duration can lead to audit issues.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure all documentation includes symptom duration.

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 Neurotic Depression, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Neurotic Depression

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

Chronic low-grade depression

Specialty: Psychiatry

Required Elements

  • Duration of symptoms
  • Chronic nature
  • Symptom details
  • Exclusion of major depressive episodes

Example Documentation

Patient reports persistent low mood for over 2 years, with low energy and poor concentration.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient reports feeling down.
Good Documentation Example
Patient reports persistent low mood nearly every day for 2.5 years, accompanied by low energy and poor concentration, not meeting criteria for major depressive episode.
Explanation
The good example provides specific duration and symptom details, meeting documentation requirements.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Neurotic Depression? Ask your questions below.

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