Cognitive Impairment ICD-10-CM Codes

What ICD-10 Codes are Used for Cognitive Impairment?

The International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision (ICD-10), offers a systematic framework for classifying diseases and health conditions. Let's explore the most frequently used ICD-10 codes specifically tailored for diagnosing various levels of cognitive impairment:

1. G31.84: Mild Cognitive Impairment: This code signifies a mild cognitive impairment (MCI) diagnosis. In this condition, cognitive decline is more pronounced than expected for a person's age and education level but not severe enough to interfere significantly with daily activities.
   
2. R41.840: Mild Cognitive Impairment, NOS: "NOS" stands for "Not Otherwise Specified," meaning that the code is used when there's inadequate information to pinpoint a more specific type of MCI.
   
3. R41.841: Cognitive Impairment, Moderate: This code represents moderate cognitive impairment, a middle ground between the typical cognitive decline associated with aging and the more severe condition known as dementia.
   
4. R41.9: Unspecified Symptoms and Signs Involving Cognitive Functions and Awareness: This code is assigned when the exact condition causing the cognitive impairment cannot be ascertained or specified.
   
5. F06.7: Mild or Major Neurocognitive Disorder Due to Another Medical Condition: This code encompasses disorders with significant cognitive decline in one or more cognitive domains, and this decline is a marked deterioration from a previous level of functioning.
   
6. R41.89: Other Symptoms and Signs Involving Cognitive Functions and Awareness: This code is used for any conditions related to cognitive functions and awareness that do not fit into other specific categories.
   

These are just a few examples among a wide array of Cognitive Impairment ICD codes used in healthcare documentation. Medical professionals must understand and utilize these codes effectively for precise patient diagnosis and treatment.

For a more detailed understanding, check out our explainer video below.

Which Cognitive Impairment ICD codes are billable?

• G31.84: Yes
• R41.840: Yes
• R41.841: Yes
• R41.9: Yes
• F06.7: Yes
• R41.89: Yes

Clinical Information

Understanding cognitive impairment involves a deep dive into a broad spectrum of factors. Here's a concise breakdown of some essential aspects:

• Variety in Severity: Cognitive impairment spans a continuum from mild to severe. Its effects may disrupt crucial mental functions such as memory, concentration, perception, and reasoning.
  
• Role of ICD-10 Codes: The ICD-10 codes play a vital role in healthcare by accurately documenting a patient's cognitive status. These codes are integral to accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
  
• Underlying Conditions: A range of conditions could lead to cognitive impairment. These include but aren't limited to, Alzheimer's disease, stroke, traumatic brain injury, and other neurological disorders. Each condition may affect cognitive functions differently, thus emphasizing the need for precise coding.
  
• Risk Factors: Certain lifestyle elements and medical conditions may heighten the risk of developing cognitive impairment. These include poor cardiovascular health, a lack of physical activity, an unhealthy diet, and chronic conditions such as diabetes or hypertension.
  

Understanding these factors is essential to address cognitive impairment and promote cognitive health effectively.

Synonyms Include:

• Cognitive decline
• Mild cognitive disorder
• Moderate cognitive impairment
• Cognitive loss
• Memory impairment