Understanding Failed Vision Screen (Vision Screening Failure, Abnormal Vision Screening) diagnosis? Find information on clinical documentation, medical coding, and healthcare best practices for F code diagnoses. Learn about vision screening protocols, diagnostic criteria, and common reasons for referral following an abnormal vision screening result. This resource provides guidance for healthcare professionals on properly documenting and coding a failed vision screen in a clinical setting.
Also known as
Disorders of refraction and accommodation
Covers common vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
Other disorders of eye and adnexa
Includes various eye conditions that may cause vision impairment, not covered elsewhere.
Special screening examination for eye and vision conditions
Encompasses encountering abnormal findings during vision screenings.
Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.
Is the failed vision screen due to refractive error?
Yes
Is it hyperopia?
No
Is it due to a documented eye disease?
When to use each related code
| Description |
|---|
| Failed vision screening test. |
| Reduced visual acuity, needing correction. |
| Eye misalignment affecting vision. |
Coding lacks laterality (right, left, bilateral) potentially impacting reimbursement and quality reporting for failed vision screen.
Missing visual acuity details (e.g., 20/20, 20/40) prevents accurate severity coding and appropriate follow-up care planning.
Using a generic 'failed vision screen' code without specifying the type of vision problem (e.g., myopia, astigmatism) hinders data analysis and care coordination.
Q: What is the appropriate differential diagnosis protocol for a child with a failed vision screening, specifically reduced visual acuity in one eye?
A: A failed vision screening, particularly reduced visual acuity in one eye in a child, warrants a comprehensive differential diagnosis. Consider amblyopia (lazy eye), refractive errors (myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism), strabismus (eye misalignment), congenital cataracts, optic nerve hypoplasia, or other less common conditions like retinoblastoma or cortical visual impairment. The differential diagnosis process should include a detailed history, visual acuity assessment at distance and near, cycloplegic refraction to determine the true refractive error, cover-uncover test and other assessments to detect strabismus, and a dilated fundus examination to evaluate the health of the eye's internal structures. Further investigation with imaging studies like optical coherence tomography (OCT) or visual evoked potentials (VEPs) may be necessary depending on the initial findings. Explore how age-appropriate vision tests can refine your diagnostic process for pediatric patients.
Q: How do I manage a pediatric patient who failed a vision screening due to suspected amblyopia, and what follow-up care is essential?
A: Managing a pediatric patient with suspected amblyopia following a failed vision screening starts with addressing the underlying cause. This typically involves correcting refractive errors with eyeglasses or contact lenses. The next step is to encourage the brain to use the weaker eye, commonly through patching the stronger eye or using atropine eye drops. The frequency and duration of treatment depend on the severity of the amblyopia and the child's age. Follow-up care is crucial and should involve regular monitoring of visual acuity, compliance with treatment, and assessment of any potential side effects. Consistent follow-up visits are essential to track progress, adjust the treatment plan as needed, and ensure early intervention for any complications. Consider implementing a standardized follow-up protocol to optimize patient outcomes in amblyopia management. Learn more about evidence-based patching protocols for effective amblyopia treatment.
Patient presented for a routine vision screening. Visual acuity testing revealed a failed vision screen, indicating potential vision impairment. Assessment included distance and near vision assessment, with results falling outside the expected range for the patient's age. The patient reported blurry vision and difficulty focusing on objects, particularly at distance. Differential diagnoses considered include refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism, as well as amblyopia, strabismus, and other ocular pathologies. Given the abnormal vision screening results, a comprehensive ophthalmologic examination is recommended to determine the underlying cause of the vision deficit and initiate appropriate treatment. Referral to an optometrist or ophthalmologist has been provided. ICD-10 code H53.8 (Other disorders of refraction and accommodation) may be applicable pending further diagnostic evaluation. This vision screening failure necessitates further investigation to optimize visual function and prevent potential developmental or academic delays. Patient education regarding the importance of regular eye exams and potential treatment options was provided. Follow-up is scheduled to review the results of the ophthalmologic evaluation and coordinate any necessary interventions.