Speech and language development delay due to hearing loss

This code signifies a delay in the acquisition and development of speech and language skills that is directly attributable to an underlying hearing impairment. It describes a developmental disorder where the primary cause of communication difficulties is a deficit in auditory perception.

Apply this code when documentation clearly links a patient's speech and language developmental delay to a diagnosed hearing loss. This typically involves a history of delayed milestones in speaking and understanding, coupled with audiometric findings confirming hearing impairment.

• Always code the underlying hearing loss (e.g., H90.-) first, as it is the etiology.
• Ensure documentation explicitly states the causal relationship between the hearing loss and the developmental delay.
• Do not use this code if the speech and language delay is due to other factors, such as intellectual disability or autism spectrum disorder, even if hearing loss is also present but not the primary cause of the delay.