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  2. ICD-10-CM Codes List
  3. Z00–Z99
  4. Z55-Z65
  5. Problems related to education and literacy (Z55)

Problems related to education and literacy (Z55)

The Z55 series of ICD-10 codes identify issues related to education and literacy that impact a person's ability to learn or perform academically. These codes cover a range of educational challenges, from illiteracy to problems with school attendance and academic achievement.

Codes such as Z55.0 specifically address illiteracy and low-level literacy, useful for indicating when an individual cannot read well or at all. The code Z55.1 applies to situations where schooling is unavailable or unattainable, including forced school exclusion. Z55.2 and Z55.3 cover failed school exams and underachievement in school, helping coders document academic difficulties or failure to reach expected education levels. Z55.4 highlights problems with social adjustment in school settings, like discord with teachers or classmates. Additionally, Z55.6 is designated for health literacy problems, identifying when limited understanding impairs health-related education. Other codes such as Z55.8 and Z55.9 capture miscellaneous or unspecified educational issues, including absenteeism or incomplete education. Using these ICD-10 codes clarifies the specific educational or literacy-related challenges a person faces, facilitating clearer communication in healthcare and social services documentation.

Instructional Notations

Type 1 Excludes

A type 1 excludes note is a pure excludes note. It means "NOT CODED HERE!" An Excludes1 note indicates that the code excluded should never be used at the same time as the code above the Excludes1 note. An Excludes1 is used when two conditions cannot occur together, such as a congenital form versus an acquired form of the same condition.

  • disorders of psychological development F80 F89

Clinical Terms

The following clinical terms provide additional context, helping users better understand the clinical background and common associations for each diagnosis listed in this section. Including related terms alongside ICD-10-CM codes supports coders, billers, and healthcare professionals in improving accuracy, enhancing documentation, and facilitating research or patient education.

Absenteeism

Chronic absence from work or other duty.