Find the Right ICD 10 Code for ADHD

The ADHD Journey

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a prevalent neurological condition that weaves its presence into countless lives, manifesting as behavioral challenges related to attention, impulsivity, and/or hyperactivity, oftentimes casting shadows upon daily lives and personal growth.

Also recognized as Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), this condition can potentially lead to substantial adverse outcomes if left untreated.

Understandably, you might be pondering about the etiology of such a condition. Well, let me clarify, the precise etiology of ADHD remains elusive; nevertheless, it is believed to stem from a complex interplay of genetic and neurobiological factors.

Common signs and symptoms of Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) often read like a page out of life's chaotic playbook: grappling with staying on task, wrestling with pesky distractions, and sometimes, impulsively diving headfirst into the fray.

Now, Let's Break Down ADHD Subtypes, Shall We?

1. Predominantly Inattentive: Picture this – a person dancing to the tune of distraction, but without the hyperactive or impulsive antics. This one's all about wandering thoughts and scattered focus.
2. Predominantly Hyperactive/Impulsive: On the flip side, here we have the adrenaline junkies. Hyperactivity and impulsivity are their trusty sidekicks, but inattention here takes a backseat.
3. Combined Type: For those who want it all – the full spectrum. Here, we've got a cocktail of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, making life a whirlwind.

Diagnosis and Clinical Documentation of ADHD

ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, isn't your run-of-the-mill diagnosis! You won't find a straightforward litmus test that screams, "ADHD detected!" Instead, the journey to uncovering this neuro-behavioral enigma is more like peeling an onion – layer by layer, with each layer revealing a bit more about what's beneath.

During the diagnostic interview, clinical psychologists don't just sit you down for a boring Q&A session. Oh no! They dig deep, asking questions about how you're handling the daily grind – be it at home, school, or work. It's like they're on a quest to unravel the mysteries of your mind.

But that's not all; they will hand you this checklist like some kind of ADHD detective's tool. And you're tasked with checking off symptoms like you're ticking off items on a scavenger hunt list. They want to see if you've got the telltale signs.

Now, it's not just about the mind games. They will get physical too, and it's not what you might expect. They will give you a once-over to eliminate the chances of some sneaky medical condition masquerading as ADHD symptoms. Guess what, the fun doesn't stop there. These pros, at some point, will bring out the big guns – psychological tests that dive deep into your psyche; trying to rule out any tag-along conditions, like anxiety or depression.

Now, who's fit for such a mission? Well, it's gotta be a pro. They need to have the right training and expertise. Psychologists, neuropsychologists, psychiatrists, and other mental health professionals – they're the ones considered top guns for such an ADHD evaluation gig. They're the ones who can get you the answers.

A diagnosis of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is typically based on the criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5).

To receive a diagnosis of ADHD, an individual must exhibit a pattern of symptoms that meet specific criteria. Here is a short checklist of the criteria for diagnosing ADHD:

Criterion A: Persistent Inattention (Need at least six of the following symptoms for individuals under 17 years of age, or at least five for individuals 17 years of age and older):

1. Often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, at work, or with other activities.
2. Often has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities.
3. Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly.
4. Often does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace.
5. Often has difficulty organizing tasks and activities.
6. Often avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort.
7. Often loses things necessary for tasks and activities (e.g., school assignments, keys, wallet, phone).
8. Is often easily distracted by extraneous stimuli.
9. Is often forgetful in daily activities.

Criterion B: Persistent Hyperactivity-Impulsivity (Need at least six of the following symptoms for individuals under 17 years of age, or at least five for individuals 17 years of age and older):

1. Often fidgets with or taps hands or feet or squirms in seat.
2. Often leaves their seat in situations where remaining seated is expected.
3. Often runs or climbs in situations where it is inappropriate (in adolescents or adults, this may be limited to subjective feelings of restlessness).
4. Often unable to play or engage in activities quietly.
5. Often talks excessively.
6. Often blurts out answers before questions have been completed.
7. Often has difficulty waiting their turn.
8. Often interrupts or intrudes on others' conversations or games.

Criterion C: Duration and Severity:

• Several symptoms were present prior to age 12.
• Symptoms are present in two or more settings (e.g., at home, school, work).
• There must be clear evidence that the symptoms interfere with or reduce the quality of social, academic, or occupational functioning.
• The symptoms do not occur exclusively during the course of schizophrenia or another psychotic disorder and are not better explained by another mental disorder.

Additional Considerations:

• Evaluation should include a thorough assessment of the individual's medical and developmental history, as well as observations of their behavior.
• Symptoms should be present for at least six months.
• The diagnosis may be classified as either "Predominantly Inattentive Presentation," "Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation," or "Combined Presentation" based on the predominant symptomatology.

Who Even Gives a Hoot About ICD-10 Codes, Right?

Hold on a sec, did you know that the folks in the world of healthcare and insurance have this whole system in place to categorize all those medical conditions and procedures? Yeah, it's a bit of a behind-the-scenes thing, but it's there to keep everything running smoothly and make sure you get the top-notch care you deserve!

So, here's the deal – every illness out there has its very own secret code. Think of it like a sneaky tracking number that helps doctors and researchers keep their eyes on the prize. They call it ICD-10, which is just short for the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems. Fancy, huh?

Now, I get it, nobody's thrilled about dealing with insurance companies. But here's a little insider tip: being on top of your record-keeping game can make getting those medical expenses sorted a whole lot less painful. This is your chance to show those insurance bigwigs that you're no rookie. See, when it comes to something like ADHD, having the right ICD-10 code is like having the golden ticket when it comes to billing. Insurance companies use that code to figure out whether they're footing the bill for your medical procedures or not.

And here's the kicker – if things aren't classified correctly, you might find yourself in a pickle. Those ADHD treatments your patients need so badly? They might not be covered, and that's a real wallet-walloping headache.

So, bottom line, getting your ICD-10 ducks in a row is your ticket to peace. Don't let those codes scare you off; they can be your secret weapon in the insurance game!

ADHD ICD-10 Codes

When it comes to ADHD, you'll find it tucked away in the ICD-10 under a pretty straightforward category - F90. But hold your horses, F90 isn't just it. Yep, it's a bit of a mixed bag, so let's break it down.

F90 - Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders

Now, you'd think that'd be it, right? But oh, we're just getting started. F90 has its own subcategories, each with a unique flavor:

• F90.0 - Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Predominantly Inattentive Type

This one's for the daydreamers. Sure, they might have a sprinkle of hyperactivity, but the main dish here is inattention. This code also encompasses cases of attention deficiency without hyperactivity.

• F90.1 - Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Predominantly Hyperactive Type

Individuals in this category are primarily hyperactive, although they may also experience some degree of inattention. Now, these folks are the Energizer bunnies of the ADHD world: hyperactivity is their jam.

• F90.2 - Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Combined Type

Why pick sides when you can have it all? This one's for the hybrids. You get a bit of inattention and a sprinkle of hyperactivity, but neither one really takes the spotlight. It's like ADHD's version of a mixed tape.

• F90.8 - Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Other Type

This category covers Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) of various types beyond the commonly recognized ones.

• F90.9 - Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Unspecified Type

When the doc's not in the mood for specifics, they pull out this code. It's like a "you figure it out" type deal that comes into play when a physician does not specify the particular type of ADHD a patient has.

Fun Time

Wanna remember the ADHD ICD-10 code for the rest of your life? Mentalyc got your back!

• Let your imagination run wild! Picture a scene where you're in a classroom teeming with 90 zany, hyperactive students. Yep, that's the ADHD vibe right there. The number 90? It's your golden ticket to that ICD-10 code.

• Link that number to a memory that's etched in your mind. Think of a year that resonates with you, perhaps a legendary athlete's jersey number, or even a special address that's laced with personal significance, all with the magic touch of 90. For instance, "Back in 1990, my cousin, who's got ADHD, came into the world.”

• Repeat after me, "ADHD's got me on the go. ICD number 90, you know!" It's catchy, it's sassy, and it's your mental cue to that code.

• Who doesn't love a good story? Craft a mini tale starring ADHD and the number 90: Deep within a forest dwelled a riotous gang of 90 squirrels, each more energetic than the last. These furry troublemakers couldn't sit still long enough to gather their beloved nuts. It was only the venerable owl, the forest's wisest sage, who finally identified their condition as ADHD.

See how simple it can be? Cheers!

References:

• American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). 2013.

---

About the author

Salwa Zeineddine

Salwa Zeineddine is an expert in the mental health and medical field, being a medical student and having worked as a medical researcher at the American University of Beirut Medical Center for many years. She is highly knowledgeable about therapists’ needs and insurance requirements. Salwa has always considered herself a successful person, being the recipient of a full scholarship from the AUB Faculty of Medicine. Her achievements over the years made her realize that real success is one in which she can genuinely affect people’s lives, the reason why she became passionate about helping people better understand and manage their mental health. Salwa is an advocate for mental health, is committed to providing the best possible care for her patients, and works to ensure that everyone has access to the resources they need.

Learn More About Salwa