Pediatric Coding Alert

Question: How will we report ADHD under ICD-10?

Answer: Using the current ICD-9 coding system, pediatric coders are familiar with 314.00 for ADD and 314.01 for ADHD. However, that will change on October 1, 2015, when you’ll be required to report ICD-10 codes. Get to know the following options:

• F90.0 -- Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, predominantly inattentive type
• F90.1 -- Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, predominantly hyperactive type
• F90.2 -- Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, combined type
• F90.8 -- Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, other type
• F90.9 -- Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, unspecified type

Documentation: With ICD-10, the physician has a specific code to tell the insurer that the patient has both ADD and ADHD (F90.2, combined type). Therefore, the documentation should clearly reflect the specific condition that the pediatrician diagnoses, whether it’s ADD, ADHD, combined type, or another type. 

Practice Tips: For unspecified ADHD diagnoses, you’ll have to report F90.9, but this code will most likely only apply if you do not document enough information to allow you to report a more specific code. If you find that you’re reporting F90.9 frequently, get to know the specifics of the new ADD and ADHD codes so you can ensure that your claims are as specific as possible.