ICD-10 Coding for Unspecified Hearing Loss(H91.90, H91.91, H91.92, H91.93)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Unspecified Hearing Loss. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Unspecified Hearing Loss
H91.90-H91.93Primary Range
Unspecified hearing loss with laterality
This range covers unspecified hearing loss, allowing for coding when specific details such as type or cause are not documented.
Conductive and sensorineural hearing loss
These codes are used when the type of hearing loss is specified, providing more detailed classification.
Congenital malformations of the ear
Used when hearing loss is due to congenital malformations, taking precedence over unspecified codes.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| H91.90 | Unspecified hearing loss, unspecified ear | Use when hearing loss is documented but lacks specific details such as type or cause. |
|
| H91.91 | Unspecified hearing loss, right ear | Use when hearing loss is documented in the right ear but lacks specific details such as type or cause. |
|
| H91.92 | Unspecified hearing loss, left ear | Use when hearing loss is documented in the left ear but lacks specific details such as type or cause. |
|
| H91.93 | Unspecified hearing loss, bilateral | Use when hearing loss is documented in both ears but lacks specific details such as type or 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 unspecified hearing loss
Essential facts and insights about Unspecified Hearing Loss
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for unspecified hearing loss
Decision Criteria
documentation Criteria
- Lack of specific type or cause in medical records
Applicable To
- Hearing loss not otherwise specified
Excludes
- Hearing loss due to congenital malformations (Q16.5)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Audiometric evidence of hearing loss
- Lack of specific type or cause in documentation
Code-Specific Risks
- Potential for claim denial due to lack of specificity
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation justifies the use of an unspecified code by indicating why further specificity is not possible.
H91.91 - Unspecified hearing loss, right ear
Use when hearing loss is documented in the right ear but lacks specific details such as type or cause.
Applicable To
- Hearing loss not otherwise specified in the right ear
Excludes
- Hearing loss due to congenital malformations (Q16.5)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Audiometric evidence of hearing loss in the right ear
- Lack of specific type or cause in documentation
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation justifies the use of an unspecified code by indicating why further specificity is not possible.
H91.92 - Unspecified hearing loss, left ear
Use when hearing loss is documented in the left ear but lacks specific details such as type or cause.
Applicable To
- Hearing loss not otherwise specified in the left ear
Excludes
- Hearing loss due to congenital malformations (Q16.5)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Audiometric evidence of hearing loss in the left ear
- Lack of specific type or cause in documentation
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation justifies the use of an unspecified code by indicating why further specificity is not possible.
H91.93 - Unspecified hearing loss, bilateral
Use when hearing loss is documented in both ears but lacks specific details such as type or cause.
Applicable To
- Hearing loss not otherwise specified in both ears
Excludes
- Hearing loss due to congenital malformations (Q16.5)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Audiometric evidence of hearing loss in both ears
- Lack of specific type or cause in documentation
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation justifies the use of an unspecified code by indicating why further specificity is not possible.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Hearing examination without abnormal findings
Z01.10Differential 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 Unspecified Hearing Loss to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code H91.90.
Impact
Clinical: Inaccurate diagnosis and treatment plans., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document which ear is affected., Use templates to ensure completeness.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to claim denials or reduced reimbursement rates., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines requiring specificity., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of health records and data analytics.
Mitigation Strategy
Always specify laterality when possible to avoid unspecified codes.
Impact
Frequent use of unspecified codes may trigger audits.
Mitigation Strategy
Document reasons for lack of specificity and any pending tests.
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 Unspecified Hearing Loss, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Unspecified Hearing Loss
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Unspecified Hearing Loss. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Sudden Hearing Loss Documentation
Specialty: OtolaryngologyRequired Elements
- Laterality
- Type
- Severity
- Onset
- Etiology
- Supporting Tests
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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