F03.90 ICD-10 - Document Dementia without Behavioral Issues

The ICD-10 Code F03.90 is a billable code used for healthcare diagnosis reimbursement of unspecified dementia without behavioral disturbance. It corresponds to the ICD-9 code 294.2.

Key Points:

• Billable: Yes
• ICD-9 Code Transition: 294.2
• Description: F03.90 indicates mental health characterized by a decline in cognitive functions, such as memory, problem-solving, and decision-making, without associated behavioral disturbances.

What is the code F03.90?

The ICD-10 Code F03.90 stands for "unspecified dementia, unspecified severity, without behavioral disturbance, psychotic disturbance, mood disturbance, and anxiety." Healthcare providers use this code for cases where the specific type and severity of dementia remain undetermined, and there are no notable behavioral disturbances.

Symptoms Commonly Associated with F03.90

Patients diagnosed with F03.90 often exhibit:

• Memory loss
• Difficulty solving problems or planning
• Confusion regarding time or place
• Challenges with understanding visual information
• Problems speaking or writing
• Losing items and struggling to locate them again
• Poor judgment
• Withdrawal from social or work activities
• Mood changes, including anxiety or depression

Related ICD-10 Codes for Dementia

Several codes are related to F03.90, including:

• F03.911: Unspecified dementia with agitation
• F01.50: Vascular dementia without behavioral disturbances
• F02.80: Dementia in other diseases without behavioral disturbances
• G30.9: Alzheimer’s disease, unspecified

These codes help differentiate dementia types and their specific characteristics.

Appropriate Usage for Billing with F03.90

Use the code F03.90 for medical billing when:

1. The patient has dementia, but the specific type and severity are undetermined.
2. There are no significant behavioral disturbances.

Key Guidelines for Coding F03.90

• Verify that the diagnosis is thoroughly recorded in the patient’s medical records.
• Avoid using this code if the dementia type is known; instead, use the specific ICD-10 code.
• For cases with behavioral disturbances, use the appropriate code indicating the disturbance.

Common Pitfalls in Coding F03.90

• Incorrect Usage: Using F03.90 when behavioral disturbances are present.
• Inappropriate Application: Using F03.90 when the dementia type is already identified.

Resources for Accurate F03.90 Coding

• ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting: Comprehensive instructions for coding practices.
• Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS): Regular updates and resources for medical coders.
• Professional Coding Organizations: Associations like AHIMA and AAPC provide educational support and certifications.
• Coding Reference Materials: Use the ICD-10-CM codebook or software for accurate documentation.

Conclusion

The ICD-10 Code F03.90 is essential for documenting "unspecified dementia without behavioral disturbances." Accurate use of this code ensures proper billing, precise healthcare operations, and improved patient care. By following guidelines, avoiding pitfalls, and leveraging key resources, healthcare providers can optimize their coding practices. Expressmbs simplifies ICD-10 documentation by offering quick searches, streamlined nomenclature mapping, and an efficient workflow for future coding needs. Contact us today for seamless medical billing and coding solutions.