Alzheimer Disease Documentation Guide
Progressive neurodegenerative dementia characterized by memory loss and cognitive decline.
ICD-10 Codes: G30.0, G30.1, G30.8, G30.9, F02.80, F02.81
Common Symptoms
- Progressive memory loss
- Difficulty with familiar tasks
- Disorientation
- Language problems
- Personality changes
Key Documentation Elements
- Cognitive assessment scores (MMSE, MoCA) with comparison
- Disease stage (early-onset vs late-onset, mild/moderate/severe)
- Functional status and ADL/IADL capabilities
- Behavioral and psychological symptoms
- Medication management (cholinesterase inhibitors, memantine)
Documentation Challenges
- Documenting cognitive testing scores (MMSE, MoCA) and trends
- Recording functional status and ADL assessment
- Capturing caregiver burden and support resources
- Tracking behavioral symptoms and pharmacologic management
Billing Considerations
- G30.x with F02.8x dual coding requirement (disease + dementia)
- Early-onset (G30.0) vs late-onset (G30.1) distinction
- Cognitive assessment billing (96116, 96121)
Frequently Asked Questions
How is Alzheimer disease coded in ICD-10?
Alzheimer requires dual coding: G30.x for the disease (G30.0 early-onset, G30.1 late-onset) plus F02.80/F02.81 for the dementia (without/with behavioral disturbance). Scribeable captures both codes based on your documentation.
How does Scribeable support Alzheimer care documentation?
Scribeable records cognitive scores, functional assessments, behavioral symptoms, medication management, and caregiver discussions from your encounter, building longitudinal dementia care documentation.