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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesF81.0

F81.0

Billable

Specific reading disorder

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/05/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 F81.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of specific reading disorder.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Specific reading disorder, also known as dyslexia, is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by difficulties with accurate and/or fluent word recognition and by poor spelling and decoding abilities. These difficulties typically result from a deficit in the phonological component of language and are often unexpected in relation to other cognitive abilities and the provision of effective classroom instruction. Individuals with specific reading disorder may struggle with reading comprehension and may experience challenges in writing and verbal communication. The disorder can manifest in various ways, including difficulty in recognizing words, poor reading fluency, and challenges in understanding written text. It is important to note that specific reading disorder is not due to a lack of intelligence or inadequate educational opportunities. Early identification and intervention are crucial for improving outcomes, and interventions may include specialized teaching strategies, accommodations, and the use of assistive technology. The condition often coexists with other neurodevelopmental disorders, such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and other learning disabilities, necessitating a comprehensive approach to assessment and treatment.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in presentation and severity of symptoms
  • Need for comprehensive assessment and documentation
  • Potential overlap with other learning disabilities
  • Requirement for educational history and intervention records

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of assessment results
  • Failure to document educational interventions
  • Misdiagnosis due to overlapping symptoms with other disorders
  • Lack of evidence for the impact on academic performance

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive developmental history, educational assessments, and intervention plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Assessment of a child referred for reading difficulties, evaluation of coexisting conditions like ADHD.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of age-appropriate developmental milestones and educational context.

Psychology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed psychological evaluation reports, including cognitive testing and behavioral observations.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Conducting assessments for learning disabilities in school-aged children.

Billing Considerations

Integration of psychological testing results with educational performance data.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use F81.0 When
  • According to the ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, F81
  • 0 should be used when there is clear evidence of reading difficulties that are not attributable to other conditions
  • Documentation must include assessment results and evidence of educational interventions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use F81.0 When
  • Exclusion criteria include reading difficulties due to visual impairments or lack of educational opportunity

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

96111CPT Code

Developmental testing

Clinical Scenario

Used for comprehensive assessment of learning disabilities.

Documentation Requirements

Detailed report of testing results and recommendations.

Specialty Considerations

Psychologists and pediatricians should ensure that testing aligns with educational assessments.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of learning disabilities, including specific reading disorder. This specificity aids in better tracking of prevalence and treatment outcomes, facilitating improved educational and clinical interventions.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of learning disabilities, including specific reading disorder. This specificity aids in better tracking of prevalence and treatment outcomes, facilitating improved educational and clinical interventions.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of learning disabilities, including specific reading disorder. This specificity aids in better tracking of prevalence and treatment outcomes, facilitating improved educational and clinical interventions.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Psychiatric Association - Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders
  • •
    International Dyslexia Association

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Psychiatric Association - Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders
  • •
    International Dyslexia Association

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between specific reading disorder and general learning disability?

Specific reading disorder refers specifically to difficulties with reading skills, while general learning disability encompasses a broader range of cognitive impairments affecting various academic skills.

How can specific reading disorder be diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a comprehensive evaluation that includes standardized reading assessments, cognitive testing, and a review of educational history.