The Intake

Insights for those starting, managing, and growing independent healthcare practices

ICD-10 Code F90.0

Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, predominantly inattentive type

What is the code F90.0?

F90.0 is a billable/specific ICD-10-CM code used to denote "attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, predominantly inattentive type." This code is part of the chapter on mental, behavioral, and neurodevelopmental disorders (F01–F99), specifically within the section of Behavioral and emotional disorders with onset usually occurring in childhood and adolescence (F90–F98).

Detailed description of F90.0

This code describes a condition where individuals predominantly show symptoms of inattention rather than hyperactivity or impulsivity, which are seen in other types of ADHD. It is characterized by significant difficulties in maintaining focus on tasks or play activities, following through on instructions, and managing sequential tasks.

Symptoms commonly associated with F90.0

  • Often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork or other activities
  • Has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities
  • Does not seem to listen when spoken to directly
  • Does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork or chores
  • Has difficulty organizing tasks and activities
  • Avoids or dislikes tasks that require sustained mental effort
  • Loses things necessary for tasks or activities
  • Is easily distracted by extraneous stimuli
  • Is forgetful in daily activities
  • F90.1: Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, predominantly hyperactive type
  • F90.2: Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, combined type
  • F90.9: Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, unspecified type

Appropriate usage of F90.0 for billing

F90.0 should be used for billing when a physician has documented that a patient exhibits the majority of their ADHD symptoms in the form of inattention, without the significant hyperactive or impulsive behaviors that characterize other types.

Instructional guidelines for providers coding F90.0

Documenting the specific behaviors and symptoms that qualify a patient for this subtype supports code assignment. A comprehensive behavioral assessment, often supported by school reports and parental observations, should be part of the medical record.

ADHD may alternatively be documented as “attention deficit syndrome with hyperactivity” and is included in category F90, Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorders.

F90.0 should be assigned when the attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder has been documented as inattentive presentation or type.

Category F90: “Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorders” has a type 2 exclusion note that is applicable to code F90.0, advising that providers may use codes within this category in conjunction with the following ones:

  • Anxiety disorders (F40.–, F41.–)
  • Mood [affective] disorders (F30–F39)
  • Pervasive developmental disorders (F84.–)
  • Schizophrenia (F20.–)

If any of the conditions listed in the type 2 exclusion note have been diagnosed, it is acceptable to use both codes as needed in order to describe the patient's condition fully.

Common pitfalls in coding with F90.0

  • Using F90.0 when the patient exhibits significant symptoms of hyperactivity or impulsivity, which might warrant a diagnosis of the combined type (F90.2).
  • Inadequate documentation of the inattentive symptoms that justifies the use of this specific code.

Key resources for F90.0 coding

Conclusion

The ICD-10-CM code F90.0 is used for accurately documenting ADHD cases where inattention is the predominant issue. Proper use of this code facilitates the correct approach to treatment and management, ensuring that patients receive interventions that are most likely to improve their specific symptoms.

Simplify ICD-10 code documentation with Tebra

Tebra’s EHR+ gives you quick searches and Systematized Nomenclature of Medicine (SNOMED) field names for efficient code documentation. Plus, Tebra automatically saves ICD-10 to SNOMED mapping for future searches, streamlining your workflow.

Discover how Tebra helps providers effortlessly document health-related issues and conditions in this detailed post.

Download the workbook
Subscribe to The Intake:
A weekly check-up for your independent practice