ADHD ICD-10 Code F90.9: Comprehensive Guide to Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Diagnoses and ICD-10 Coding

In clinical practice and healthcare administration alike, precise documentation is foundational to effective patient care, care coordination, and reimbursement. One area where this precision is particularly important is the coding of Attention‑Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) using the ICD‑10‑CM system. For nursing students, understanding how to apply the correct code for ADHD is a crucial skill that bridges clinical assessment, diagnosis, documentation, and billing.

ADHD is a common neurodevelopmental condition characterised by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity that impair functioning in multiple settings (such as school, home and work). The role of the ICD-10 code in ADHD extends beyond mere administrative formality: it ensures that care teams recognise the type of presentation (for example inattentive type, hyperactive type or combined type), supports appropriate treatment planning, and helps guarantee that insurers recognise the condition for reimbursement. Using an unspecified code when a more specific subtype is evident may lead to delays in payment or claims denials, and might obscure the nature of the patient’s needs.

By equipping nursing students with a thorough understanding of how the classification of diseases and related health problems operates for ADHD — how each diagnosis code is structured, how to interpret the documentation around inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms, and how to choose the correct code such as F90.0, F90.1, F90.2 or the unspecified F90.9 — this guide aims to demystify the coding system. It emphasises that competent coding is not just a “tick-box” task, but a meaningful element of the care pathway: aiding the multidisciplinary team in acknowledging the full scope of ADHD, ensuring accurate diagnoses, and promoting high-quality patient care across multiple settings.

In the sections that follow, you will learn what ADHD stands for, why coding matters in a healthcare context, how the ICD-10 system works for ADHD specifically, what the key codes mean, how to ensure documentation and diagnosis align with best practice, common coding errors and how to avoid them, and finally best practices for ongoing review and accurate coding in your nursing practice setting. Whether you encounter a child diagnosed with inattentive type ADHD, an adult with the combined type, or a patient whose subtype remains unspecified, mastering the code used will make you a more confident contributor to clinical care, inter-professional communication and health system integrity.

What is ADHD and Why is Coding Important?

What does ADHD stand for?

ADHD stands for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects both children and adults. It is characterized by patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with daily functioning or development. The diagnosis of ADHD is typically made using the criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), but accurate documentation also depends on selecting the right ICD-10 code for ADHD in healthcare records.

There are three main presentations of ADHD:

1. Predominantly inattentive type – individuals often appear easily distracted, forgetful, and have trouble focusing or completing tasks.
2. Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type – characterized by excessive movement, restlessness, and difficulty waiting or staying seated.
3. Combined type – where both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms are equally present.

An example of coding might include ICD-10 code F90.9, which refers to Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, unspecified type. However, when sufficient information is available, more specific codes should be used to represent the patient’s actual presentation.

Why is Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder significant in healthcare?

ADHD is significant in healthcare because of its prevalence, impact, and the importance of early intervention. It affects millions worldwide and can lead to long-term challenges in education, employment, relationships, and emotional regulation. From a healthcare perspective, recognizing and properly coding the diagnosis of ADHD ensures accurate documentation, effective treatment planning, and appropriate follow-up care.

In clinical settings, the ICD-10 coding system allows providers to record the condition consistently across patient records. This consistency is vital for data analysis, research, and public health monitoring. For example, identifying trends in ADHD diagnosis codes helps policymakers allocate resources for school-based mental health programs or community awareness campaigns.

Moreover, the accurate use of ICD-10 codes ensures that individuals receive proper interventions—whether medication management, behavioral therapy, or psychoeducation. A correctly entered diagnosis code signals the type and severity of the disorder, guiding care teams in developing personalized treatment plans.

For instance, a student diagnosed with ADHD, combined type (ICD-10 code F90.2) might receive both behavioral strategies and stimulant medication, while another with ADHD, inattentive type (ICD-10 code F90.0) could benefit more from academic accommodations and cognitive support. These distinctions emphasize why accurate coding is a cornerstone of quality healthcare delivery.

How does coding impact treatment and insurance reimbursement?

The process of billing and coding plays a central role in ensuring that individuals with ADHD receive the care they need. When a provider enters the correct ICD-10 code—such as F90.0 for inattentive type or F90.9 for unspecified ADHD—it directly affects treatment continuity and insurance reimbursement.

Accurate billing and coding documentation ensures that insurance companies understand the medical necessity for specific services. For example:

• Medication prescriptions for ADHD require proper diagnosis codes to be covered.
• Behavioral therapy sessions or counseling interventions may only be reimbursed if tied to the appropriate ICD-10 code.
• Claims with incomplete or unspecified codes can be delayed or denied, affecting both patient care and provider revenue.

Beyond financial implications, coding also influences treatment outcomes. When the diagnosis of ADHD is properly coded, it allows all members of the healthcare team—nurses, physicians, therapists, and educators—to communicate effectively using standardized terminology. This improves coordination, supports accurate progress tracking, and ensures the chosen interventions match the patient’s needs.

For instance, an adolescent patient whose chart lists ICD-10 code F90.2 (combined type) will automatically signal to the care team that both attention and impulse-control strategies must be addressed. If the chart simply listed F90.9 (unspecified), vital treatment details might be missed, leading to incomplete care.

Understanding the ADHD ICD-10 Codes

What is the ICD-10 system and how does it work?

The ICD-10 system, short for the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, is a standardized coding system developed by the World Health Organization (WHO). It provides a universal framework for classifying diseases and related health problems, ensuring that healthcare providers worldwide use the same terminology when recording medical diagnoses. In the United States, the ICD-10-CM codes (Clinical Modification) are used for diagnostic documentation, billing, and reporting purposes.

The ICD-10 system functions as a bridge between diagnostic criteria and healthcare administration. Every medical condition—from infectious diseases to mental health disorders—has a unique code assigned to it. For instance, when a healthcare provider diagnoses Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), they must document the appropriate ICD-10 code for ADHD to describe the specific type or presentation. This process ensures accuracy in patient care, facilitates research, and supports reimbursement for medical services.

In mental health and nursing practice, using the correct ICD code is especially important because psychiatric and behavioral diagnoses often rely on clinical observation and detailed documentation. By classifying ADHD within the neurodevelopmental disorders category, the ICD-10 coding system highlights its developmental and behavioral nature—typically identified during childhood in which the essential features are signs of developmentally inappropriate inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity that appear in multiple settings, such as home and at school.

When entering information into electronic health records, the code used must match both the clinical findings and the diagnosis of ADHD established by a qualified provider. The precision of this coding system allows for continuity of care, proper data tracking, and compliance with insurance requirements.

What are the specific ICD-10 codes for neurodevelopmental disorder?

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder is represented by a family of ICD-10 codes under the “F90” category. Each code identifies a particular type of ADHD, reflecting the symptoms observed and documented during evaluation. Below are the main ICD-10 codes for ADHD used in clinical settings:

• F90.0 – Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Predominantly Inattentive Type
  This code is used when the primary symptoms involve inattention, such as difficulty maintaining focus, being easily distracted, or failing to follow instructions. Individuals coded under F90.0 often struggle with organization and sustained attention but may not display significant hyperactive or impulsive behaviors.
• F90.1 – Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Predominantly Hyperactive Type
  The F90.1 code is applied when hyperactivity and impulsivity are more prominent. This may include fidgeting, talking excessively, difficulty staying seated, or acting without thinking. The hyperactive type is more frequently identified in younger children, especially in early classroom environments where sitting still is expected.
• F90.2 – Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Combined Type
  F90.2 applies when both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms are equally significant. This combined type ADHD is the most commonly diagnosed form, often associated with problems in school, challenges at home, and difficulty regulating emotions. It represents individuals whose behavior patterns reflect a mix of distractibility, restlessness, and impulsivity.
• F90.9 – Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Unspecified Type
  The F90.9 code is used when the documentation does not specify whether the symptoms are primarily inattentive, hyperactive, or combined. This unspecified designation often appears in preliminary reports or when insufficient clinical information is available to assign a more specific code. It allows providers to record the diagnosis code while continuing further assessment for a more detailed classification.

These ADHD ICD-10 codes serve as the foundation for documenting, monitoring, and treating people with ADHD. They also play a crucial role in the billing and coding process, ensuring that services provided for ADHD management are properly captured for reimbursement. For instance, when a child has ADHD and is undergoing behavioral therapy, linking the correct ICD-10 code used (e.g., F90.2) ensures that the treatment aligns with the documented diagnosis of ADHD and supports accurate claim submission.

How are the ICD 10 codes for ADHD major depressive disorder categorized?

The classification of ADHD within the ICD-10 system reflects both symptom patterns and developmental presentation. ADHD falls under Chapter V of the ICD-10-CM, which addresses mental, behavioral, and neurodevelopmental disorders. Within this chapter, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder is grouped in the F90 category—behavior disorders originating in childhood and adolescence.

This structure helps distinguish ADHD from other mental health disorders, such as bipolar disorder or oppositional defiant disorder, which may share overlapping features but differ in cause, onset, and clinical management. Proper differential diagnosis is therefore essential to avoid misclassification.

Each diagnosis code within the F90 category represents a different type of ADHD:

• F90.0 emphasizes inattention and cognitive disorganization.
• F90.1 highlights hyperactive and impulsive behaviors.
• F90.2 reflects the combined type, which captures both symptom clusters.
• F90.9 denotes an unspecified type, reserved for cases where further evaluation is needed.

This classification of diseases and related health problems not only standardizes care documentation but also contributes to global data collection. Healthcare providers, researchers, and policymakers use this data to understand ADHD’s prevalence, track treatment outcomes, and refine clinical guidelines for managing children and adults with the condition.

For example, when compiling health statistics, a high frequency of F90.0 codes in a given population might indicate that most patients exhibit inattentive symptoms, guiding educators and clinicians to develop targeted intervention strategies. Conversely, an increase in F90.1 or F90.2 might highlight the need for behavior management training or parent training programs.

Ultimately, the ICD-10 coding system ensures consistency in how ADHD diagnoses are recorded and interpreted across different healthcare settings. By understanding how these codes within the F90 classification function, providers can make more informed clinical decisions, enhance patient care, and maintain compliance with reimbursement and reporting standards.

How to Conduct ADHD Diagnose for ADHD ICD Coding Purposes

What criteria are used to diagnose ADHD?

The diagnosis of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) relies on specific, evidence-based criteria that capture the core symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Clinicians look for patterns of inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms that are developmentally inappropriate and cause impairment in multiple settings such as home and at school.

Key criteria for ADHD diagnosis include:

• Symptom presence and counts: A minimum number of symptoms must be observed and documented. For children, six or more symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity/impulsivity must be present; for adolescents and adults, five or more may suffice.
• Duration: Symptoms must have persisted for at least six months.
• Onset in childhood: Signs must be evident before age 12.
• Functional impact: Symptoms must interfere with social, academic, or occupational functioning. For example, a child with ADHD may struggle to complete assignments or sit still in class, while an adult may experience missed deadlines or difficulty focusing at work.
• Symptom patterns: Clinicians categorize ADHD into predominantly inattentive type (F90.0), predominantly hyperactive type (F90.1), combined type (F90.2), or unspecified type (F90.9) based on the distribution of observed behaviors.

Additionally, differential diagnosis is crucial. ADHD must be distinguished from other neurodevelopmental or behavior disorders originating in childhood, such as oppositional defiant disorder, bipolar disorder, or learning disabilities. Proper classification ensures that the ICD-10 code assigned accurately reflects the patient’s diagnosis of ADHD.

Who can diagnose ADHD and assign an ICD-10 codes within the healthcare system?

A diagnosis of ADHD should be made by a licensed clinician qualified to evaluate mental health disorders and neurodevelopmental disorders. Professionals who can formally diagnose ADHD include:

• Pediatricians and adolescent medicine specialists
• Psychiatrists
• Clinical psychologists (where permitted by local regulations)
• Nurse practitioners and physician assistants with behavioral health privileges

While these clinicians establish the diagnosis, the ICD-10 code used for documentation and billing is selected by professional coders or entered directly by the diagnosing clinician based on clinical findings. Coders do not independently diagnose ADHD; they rely on the diagnostic criteria and documented evidence in the patient’s record to assign the appropriate ICD-10-CM code, such as F90.0, F90.1, F90.2, or F90.9.

Clear collaboration between clinicians and coders ensures:

• Accurate representation of type of ADHD
• Correct mapping to diagnosis codes for reimbursement
• Compliance with ICD-10 coding system standards
• Proper tracking of ADHD diagnoses across multiple settings

What documentation is required for accurate coding of icd-10 code for adhd?

Accurate coding for ADHD depends on thorough documentation that justifies the diagnosis code. Required documentation elements include:

1. Problem list entry: Clearly state the diagnosis, including the type of ADHD and date of assessment. Example: “ADHD, combined type (F90.2), diagnosed 2025-11-10.”
2. Symptom details: Document specific inattentive and hyperactive behaviors with examples and counts.
3. Evidence from multiple settings: Include teacher reports, parent questionnaires, or employer observations. Demonstrating cross-setting impairment supports code accuracy.
4. Functional impact: Provide objective evidence of academic, occupational, or social deficits.
5. Differential diagnosis: Note how other disorders (e.g., bipolar disorder, oppositional defiant disorder) were ruled out.
6. Comorbid conditions: Record any additional neurodevelopmental or behavior disorders present.
7. Treatment plan linkage: Outline interventions such as behavioral therapy, parent training, or medication management. Linking the plan to the documented ICD-10 code ensures reimbursement eligibility.
8. Subtype justification: If using F90.9 (unspecified type), explain why a more specific subtype cannot be determined and indicate plans for follow-up assessment.

Example documentation snippet:

“Assessment: Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, predominantly inattentive type (F90.0). Parent and teacher reports indicate six inattentive symptoms present in both home and school settings since age 7. Symptoms interfere with academic performance. No comorbid mood disorders detected. Plan: initiate behavioral interventions and monitor progress; follow-up in 4 weeks.”

Comprehensive documentation ensures the ICD-10 code for ADHD reflects the patient’s actual presentation, supports continuity of care, and meets both billing and coding standards.

Common Mistakes in ADHD Billing and Coding

Accurate coding of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is essential for proper clinical management, treatment planning, and reimbursement. Despite the availability of ICD-10 codes, errors in coding remain common due to ambiguous documentation, misunderstanding of subtype distinctions, and lack of adherence to ICD-10 coding system guidelines. Understanding these mistakes and their implications helps clinicians and coders provide more precise care and maintain compliance.

What are the most frequent coding errors associated with ADHD bipolar disorder?

Several coding errors recur frequently in clinical practice:

1. Using a nonspecific code by default
   Many providers document simply “ADHD” without specifying the type of ADHD. As a result, coders may default to F90.9 (unspecified type). While F90.9 is appropriate when subtype cannot be determined, overuse of this code reduces data quality and can affect diagnostic tracking.
2. Incorrect subtype selection
   Misidentifying predominantly inattentive type (F90.0) as combined type (F90.2), or vice versa, is common. This often occurs when documentation lists symptoms but does not clearly indicate which are predominant or when cross-setting evidence is incomplete.
3. Failure to document symptom duration or onset
   The ICD-10 code for ADHD requires that symptoms persist for at least six months and onset occurs before age 12. Omitting this information may trigger coder queries or insurance denials.
4. Ignoring comorbid conditions
   Patients with ADHD often present with neurodevelopmental disorders such as oppositional defiant disorder, anxiety, or learning disabilities. Failure to code for these comorbidities can result in incomplete care records and missed reimbursement opportunities.
5. Overlooking cross-setting impairment
   ADHD symptoms must be evident in multiple settings, including home and at school or work. Coding based solely on observations in a single setting is a common error that can affect both the accuracy of the diagnosis code and treatment planning.
6. Relying on outdated codes or coding manuals
   Using prior versions of the ICD-10-CM codes without consulting updates (e.g., 2026 ICD-10-CM revisions) can result in inaccurate ADHD ICD-10 codes being entered. This is particularly relevant when distinguishing between unspecified and specific subtypes or when documenting changes in diagnostic criteria.

How can improper coding affect patient care and billing?

Improper coding of ADHD has consequences that extend beyond administrative inconvenience:

1. Impact on patient care
   • Misclassification may lead to inappropriate or delayed treatment. For example, coding a patient with predominantly inattentive type as combined type ADHD could influence clinical decision-making regarding stimulant selection or behavioral interventions.
   • Lack of accurate coding may obscure comorbid conditions like anxiety or major depressive disorder, resulting in incomplete care plans.
2. Billing and reimbursement challenges
   • Insurance providers require specific diagnosis codes to authorize treatments and reimburse services. Inaccurate coding can cause claim denials, delayed payments, or underpayment for services rendered.
   • Misuse of unspecified type (F90.9) without proper justification may trigger audits or requests for additional documentation, increasing administrative workload for providers and coders.
3. Data tracking and research implications
   • Errors in coding affect population-level statistics on ADHD diagnoses, prevalence, and treatment outcomes. This can hinder evidence-based policy-making and allocation of resources for behavioral health programs.

What steps can be taken to avoid coding mistakes?

To prevent errors in ADHD coding, clinicians and coders should adopt the following strategies:

1. Comprehensive documentation
   • Record all required elements: symptom counts, onset, duration, functional impairment, inattentive and hyperactive symptoms, comorbid conditions, and cross-setting evidence.
   • Clearly indicate the type of ADHD to ensure proper selection of F90.0, F90.1, F90.2, or F90.9.
2. Use standardized assessment tools
   • Incorporate teacher or parent rating scales (e.g., SNAP-IV, Conners’ Rating Scale) and attach them to the record.
   • Include structured clinical interviews and objective measures to strengthen diagnostic criteria documentation.
3. Regular training and updates
   • Clinicians and coding staff should participate in training on ICD-10-CM codes and ADHD ICD-10 codes, including updates in the ICD-10 coding system and any 2026 ICD-10-CM revisions.
4. Query unclear documentation
   • Coders should send focused queries when the diagnosis of ADHD or subtype is unclear. Example: “Please clarify if ADHD is predominantly inattentive, hyperactive, or combined type. Attach supporting symptom documentation.”
5. Periodic audits and quality checks
   • Internal audits help identify patterns of coding errors and ensure that ADHD diagnoses align with diagnostic criteria and treatment records.
   • Feedback loops between clinicians and coders reinforce correct documentation practices and minimize claim denials.
6. Use coding resources and guidelines
   • Reference the International Statistical Classification of Diseases or clinical coding manuals for clarification.
   • Leverage institutional coding guidelines to maintain consistency across multiple care settings.

Best Practices for Combined Type ADHD Coding Type 2

Accurate coding of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is essential for high-quality patient care, proper reimbursement, and consistent data tracking across multiple settings. Implementing best practices ensures that clinicians, coders, and healthcare organizations maintain compliance with the ICD-10 coding system, reduce errors, and optimize treatment planning.

What strategies can healthcare providers use for accurate coding?

1. Comprehensive Clinical Documentation
   The foundation of accurate coding begins with thorough documentation. Clinicians should include:
   • Symptom counts for inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive symptoms, noting which cluster is predominant.Evidence of cross-setting impairment, including reports from parents, teachers, or employers.Functional consequences such as academic decline, work challenges, or social difficulties.Comorbid conditions such as anxiety, oppositional defiant disorder, or learning disorders, coded separately if applicable.Treatment plans (behavioral interventions, parent training, medication management), which link the ICD-10 code to medical necessity and support reimbursement.
   Example:
   A 10-year-old is documented with six inattentive symptoms and three hyperactive/impulsive symptoms, affecting performance at school and home. The provider clearly notes the ADHD subtype as predominantly inattentive (F90.0), attaches teacher questionnaires, and outlines a behavioral intervention plan. This detailed documentation allows coders to assign the correct ADHD ICD-10 code without ambiguity.
2. Use of Standardized Assessment Tools
   Standardized rating scales, such as SNAP-IV or Conners’ Rating Scales, enhance the objectivity of the diagnosis and provide evidence for coding. These tools quantify ADHD symptoms, confirm functional impairment, and document inattentive and hyperactive behaviors across multiple settings. Example:
   A Conners’ Teacher Rating Scale reports elevated scores in both inattentive and hyperactive domains. Including this attachment in the record helps justify combined type ADHD (F90.2) and strengthens the accuracy of the diagnosis code.
3. Collaboration Between Clinicians and Coders
   Coders rely on clinician documentation to select the correct ICD-10 code used for ADHD. Open communication is essential:
   • Clinicians should clarify ambiguous notes, especially when the subtype is unclear.
   • Coders can query clinicians using focused questions such as, “Please confirm if ADHD is predominantly inattentive (F90.0), hyperactive (F90.1), combined (F90.2), or unspecified (F90.9).”
     This collaboration reduces errors, ensures consistency, and supports accurate billing and coding.
4. Education and Training
   Ongoing education for clinicians and coding staff helps maintain up-to-date knowledge of ADHD ICD-10 codes, diagnostic criteria, and ICD-10 coding system updates. Training should include:
   • Differentiating ADHD subtypes
   • Recognizing inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms
   • Understanding the impact of comorbid conditions on coding
   • Proper use of unspecified type (F90.9) codes
   Example:
   A coding workshop highlights frequent errors such as overuse of F90.9 and improper mapping of predominantly hyperactive type (F90.1). Staff are trained to reference symptom counts and functional impairment to select the appropriate ICD-10 code for ADHD.
5. Integration of Electronic Health Records (EHRs)
   Leveraging EHR features, such as built-in prompts for ADHD ICD-10 codes, symptom tracking, and automated code suggestions, can streamline accurate coding. Documentation templates for childhood or adult ADHD ensure all required elements are recorded consistently.

How often should ADHD codes be reviewed and updated?

1. Periodic Code Review
   ADHD codes should be reviewed regularly to ensure ongoing accuracy. Recommended intervals include:
   • Annually during comprehensive patient evaluations
   • With significant changes in symptoms or functional status
   • Before billing submission to verify subtype and coexisting conditions
   Example:
   A patient initially diagnosed with unspecified ADHD (F90.9) receives additional teacher and school reports one year later. The subtype can now be clarified as combined type ADHD (F90.2), allowing coders to update the diagnosis code and support accurate claims.
2. Updates Following ICD-10-CM Revisions
   Clinicians and coding staff should remain aware of updates to the ICD-10 coding system, such as 2026 ICD-10-CM changes. These revisions may refine definitions, coding conventions, or add guidance for unspecified or type 2 excludes, impacting which code is most appropriate.
3. Audit-Driven Updates
   Internal or external audits may identify discrepancies between documentation and assigned codes. Regular review of coding accuracy not only ensures compliance but also informs staff education and best practice implementation.
4. Transition Between Care Settings
   When a patient moves between pediatric and adult care, or between primary care and mental health specialists, reviewing ADHD diagnoses and ICD-10 codes ensures consistency across multiple settings and supports continuity of patient care.

Conclusion

Accurate coding of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is more than an administrative task—it is a cornerstone of patient care, effective treatment, and reliable reimbursement. The proper use of ICD-10 codes, whether F90.0, F90.1, F90.2, or F90.9, ensures that clinicians can communicate the diagnosis of ADHD clearly, track outcomes across multiple settings, and provide tailored interventions based on the type of ADHD and inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms.

Misclassification or incomplete documentation can compromise care, obscure comorbid conditions like anxiety or oppositional defiant disorder, and create challenges in billing or insurance authorization. Conversely, adherence to best practices—comprehensive documentation, use of standardized assessments, collaboration between clinicians and coders, and regular review of ADHD ICD-10 codes—supports accurate diagnosis, reduces coding errors, and improves both clinical and administrative outcomes.

Healthcare providers who understand the nuances of ICD-10 coding for ADHD are better equipped to deliver patient-centered care, guide treatment planning, and navigate the complexities of billing and reimbursement. By integrating these principles into daily practice, clinicians and coding professionals can maintain precision in documentation, strengthen diagnostic criteria application, and contribute to consistent data collection that informs research and policy.

Ultimately, mastering ADHD coding is not simply about selecting a diagnosis code; it is about reinforcing a systematic approach to clinical documentation, enhancing patient care, and ensuring that children and adults with ADHD receive the evidence-based support they need across home, school, and healthcare settings. Through diligence, collaboration, and adherence to coding guidelines, healthcare teams can navigate ADHD coding with confidence and uphold the highest standards of professional practice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ICD-10 code for F90.2?

• F90.2 is the ICD-10 code for ADHD, combined type, which includes both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms.

What is the diagnosis code F90.0?

• F90.0 is the ICD-10 code for ADHD, predominantly inattentive type, where symptoms of inattention are predominant and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms are minimal or absent.

What is the disability code for ADHD?

• The ICD-10 code used for ADHD as a disability depends on subtype:
  • F90.0: Predominantly inattentive type
  • F90.1: Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type
  • F90.2: Combined type
  • F90.9: Unspecified type

What is the ICD-10 code for encounter for screening for ADHD?

• The ICD-10 code for screening for ADHD is Z13.89 (“Encounter for other specified screening”), which is used when a patient is being evaluated for ADHD but does not yet have a confirmed diagnosis.