ICD-10 Coding for Sensory Hearing Loss(H90.3, H91.2)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Sensory Hearing Loss. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Sensory Hearing Loss
H90-H91Primary Range
Hearing loss
This range includes all types of hearing loss, with specific codes for sensorineural 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 | Sensorineural hearing loss, bilateral | Use when audiometric testing confirms bilateral sensorineural hearing loss. |
|
| H91.2 | Sudden idiopathic hearing loss | Use when sudden hearing loss occurs with no identifiable cause and normal MRI. |
|
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 Sensory Hearing Loss
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for sensory hearing loss
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Audiometric confirmation of bilateral sensorineural hearing loss.
Applicable To
- Bilateral sensorineural hearing loss
Excludes
- Conductive hearing loss
- Mixed hearing loss
Clinical Validation Requirements
- PTA ≥26 dB bilateral
- ≤15 dB air-bone gap
Code-Specific Risks
- Risk of using unspecified codes if laterality is not documented.
Coding Notes
- Ensure audiometric data supports the diagnosis of bilateral sensorineural hearing loss.
H91.2 - Sudden idiopathic hearing loss
Use when sudden hearing loss occurs with no identifiable cause and normal MRI.
Applicable To
- Sudden sensorineural hearing loss
Excludes
- Hearing loss due to known causes
Clinical Validation Requirements
- ≥30 dB SNHL loss over 3 contiguous frequencies within 72hrs
- MRI IAC negative for acoustic neuroma
Coding Notes
Document exclusion of other causes and confirm sudden onset.
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.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Sensory Hearing Loss 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 incorrect treatment plans., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document whether hearing loss is unilateral or bilateral.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to reduced reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of health records.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure laterality is documented and use specific codes like H90.3 or H90.4.
Impact
High risk of audit if unspecified codes are used when specific codes apply.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation supports the use of specific codes.
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 Sensory Hearing Loss, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Sensory Hearing Loss
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Sensory Hearing Loss. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Bilateral Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Specialty: OtolaryngologyRequired Elements
- History of hearing loss
- Audiometric data
- Imaging results
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Sensory Hearing Loss? Ask your questions below.