Intellectual Disability ICD-10-CM Codes

What ICD-10 codes are used for intellectual disability?

Intellectual disability, a condition characterized by limitations in intellectual functioning and adaptive behaviors, is classified by specific ICD-10-CM codes. Here are ten commonly used codes for Intellectual Disability, along with brief clinical descriptions:

• F70: Mild intellectual disabilities: Used for individuals with mild intellectual disability, characterized by intellectual functioning deficits and limitations in adaptive behaviors. Individuals typically have an IQ of 50-55 to 70 and may achieve academic and social skills with minimal support.
• F71: Moderate intellectual disabilities: Used for individuals with moderate intellectual disability, involving more pronounced intellectual and adaptive functioning limitations. These individuals often require supervised care and support with daily living activities and have an IQ level of IQ level 35-40 to 50-55.
• F72: Severe intellectual disabilities: Used for individuals with severe intellectual disability, marked by significant cognitive impairmentsand limited communication skills and have an IQ level of 20-25 to 35-40. They generally need continuous assistance with basic self-care and daily tasks.
• F73: Profound intellectual disabilities: Used for individuals with profound intellectual disability, involving extreme limitations in intellectual and adaptive functioning. These individuals require intensive and lifelong support for all aspects of daily life. They often have an IQ level of below 20-25.
• F78: Other intellectual disabilities: Used when intellectual disability is present but does not clearly fall into the standard severity categories due to atypical findings or comorbidities.
• F79: Unspecified intellectual disabilities: Used when an intellectual disability is suspected or documented, but the severity level cannot be determined due to insufficient information or inability to complete standard assessments.

Which intellectual disability ICD codes are billable?

All of the main ICD-10-CM codes from the World Health Organization for intellectual disabilities (F70–F79) are billable as long as they are fully specified.

Clinical information

• Intellectual disability is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by significant limitations in both intellectual functioning and adaptive behaviour. These limitations affect a person’s conceptual, social, and practical skills, and the diagnosis is typically made during the developmental period.
• The condition falls under the broader umbrella of intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs), which also includes disorders with physical and behavioural components.
• Some cases of intellectual disability are genetic-related, with conditions such as fragile X syndrome and Down syndrome being common examples. Other causes include prenatal exposures, such as fetal alcohol syndrome, which can lead to cognitive and behavioural impairments due to alcohol-related damage to the developing brain.
• Early diagnosis followed by early and ongoing intervention—including educational support, speech and occupational therapy, and behavioural services—is critical to improving long-term outcomes. These interventions help individuals with IDDs reach their fullest potential and participate meaningfully in community life.
• Intellectual disabilities often co-occur with mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), which can complicate diagnosis and treatment. A multidisciplinary approach is often necessary to address both the cognitive and emotional needs of the individual.

Synonyms include

• Intellectual developmental disorder
• Mental retardation
• Cognitive impairment
• Learning disability
• Developmental delay
• Pervasive developmental disorders