ICD-11 Codes
for 6A00.3 - Disorder of intellectual development, profound

Teodor Jurukovski January 1, 1970

Fact checked by: Teodor Jurukovski

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Understanding Disorder of Intellectual Development, Profound (ICD-11 Code 6A00.3)

Disorder of intellectual development, profound, identified by the ICD-11 code 6A00.3, is a significant neurodevelopmental condition that originates during the developmental period. It is characterised by substantially below-average intellectual functioning and adaptive behaviour, typically falling four or more standard deviations below the mean. This profound level of impairment necessitates considerable support and is often associated with very limited communication abilities and restricted capacity for academic skills, usually confined to basic concrete tasks. Individuals with this condition may also experience co-occurring motor and sensory impairments, requiring daily assistance within a supervised environment for adequate care.

Alternative Terminology for Profound Intellectual Development Disorder

While the official ICD-11 terminology is Disorder of intellectual development, profound, other terms have been used historically or colloquially to describe this condition. These may include:

• Profound mental retardation
• Profound mental handicap
• Profound mental retardation disorder

It is important to use the current ICD-11 terminology for accurate medical coding and communication.

Diagnosing Profound Intellectual Development Disorder

The diagnosis of a profound disorder of intellectual development (ICD-11 code 6A00.3) is primarily based on the assessment of adaptive behaviour, as existing standardized intelligence tests may not reliably distinguish among individuals with the most severe levels of intellectual functioning. When standardized testing is unavailable or not feasible, diagnosis relies on comparable behavioural indicators. The severity classification, particularly for profound intellectual development disorder, is differentiated exclusively on the basis of adaptive behaviour differences, reflecting very limited communication abilities and restricted capacity for academic skills.

Presentation of Profound Intellectual Development Disorder

Individuals with a profound disorder of intellectual development (ICD-11 6A00.3) typically exhibit severe limitations across multiple domains. Key characteristics include:

• Very limited communication abilities, often relying on non-verbal cues or rudimentary forms of expression.
• Capacity for acquisition of academic skills is restricted to basic concrete skills.
• Significant need for daily support in a supervised environment for adequate care and management of all self-care activities.
• Potential co-occurring motor and sensory impairments, which can further impact functioning and require specialised attention.
• Profound impairments in developmental milestones across all areas in childhood.

Coding and Documenting Disorder of Intellectual Development, Profound (ICD-11 Code 6A00.3)

Accurate medical documentation and coding are essential for patient care, billing, and statistical purposes. The ICD-11 code for Disorder of intellectual development, profound is 6A00.3. This specific code is reportable and billable when a diagnosis of profound intellectual development disorder is confirmed. It should be used in clinical documentation to identify the profound level of intellectual and adaptive functioning impairment. Proper coding ensures that healthcare providers can accurately report services related to the diagnosis and management of this condition. When documenting, it is important to include details supporting the profound severity, such as limitations in communication, adaptive behaviour, and the level of support required.

Management and Support for Profound Intellectual Development Disorder

The management of Disorder of intellectual development, profound (ICD-11 code 6A00.3) focuses on providing comprehensive support tailored to the individual's profound needs. Due to the significant limitations in intellectual functioning and adaptive behaviour, affected individuals typically require daily support in a supervised environment. This includes assistance with nearly all self-care activities, communication strategies, and the development of basic concrete skills. The emphasis is on ensuring safety, well-being, and the highest possible quality of life through consistent, specialised care and support systems.