2025 ICD-10-CM code Z70
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Deletion Date: N/A Factors influencing health status and contact with health services - Persons encountering health services in other circumstances (Z69-Z76) Factors influencing health status and contact with health services (Z00-Z99) Feed
Counseling related to sexual attitude, behavior, and orientation.
Modifiers may be applicable depending on the specific circumstances of the encounter.Consult appropriate coding guidelines for further information on modifier usage.
Medical necessity for counseling related to sexual attitude, behavior, and orientation is established when a patient experiences significant distress or impairment in their daily functioning due to challenges related to their sexuality. This may include difficulty forming or maintaining relationships, depression, anxiety, or other mental health concerns stemming from sexual issues.The necessity is based on clinical judgment of the healthcare professional regarding the patient's mental health needs.
The clinical responsibility lies with a mental health professional, such as a psychologist, psychiatrist, social worker, or counselor, appropriately trained and qualified to provide counseling on issues of sexual health and identity.
In simple words: This code is used when someone goes to a healthcare professional for advice or counseling about their sexual feelings, actions, or identity.This could include talking about problems with sexual function, concerns about sexual behavior, or questions about sexual orientation.
This code encompasses counseling sessions addressing concerns related to sexual attitude, behavior, and orientation.It includes encounters for mental health services specifically focused on these aspects of sexuality.The code excludes contraceptive or procreative counseling (Z30-Z31).
Example 1: A patient presents with concerns about their sexual orientation and seeks guidance and support in navigating these feelings., A couple seeks counseling to address sexual dysfunction and improve communication around their sexual intimacy., A parent seeks advice regarding their child's exploration of their sexuality and how to best support their child's emotional and psychological well-being.
Detailed notes documenting the nature of the counseling session, the patient's presenting concerns, the counseling goals, interventions used, and the patient's response to the counseling.Documentation should include a clear indication that the session addressed sexual attitude, behavior, or orientation. Mental health professional's notes including the session's duration and treatment plan are crucial.Documentation should also address any co-occurring diagnoses.
** While Z70 is used for counseling, it's crucial to remember that this code alone is insufficient for billing purposes. It always requires a corresponding procedure code that details the type of counseling provided and the length of the session.
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:Psychiatry, Psychology, Social Work, Counseling
- Place of Service:Office, Outpatient Hospital, Mental Health Clinic