Less than a high school diploma

This code indicates that a patient has not completed high school or obtained an equivalent credential. It identifies a social determinant of health (SDOH) related to educational attainment, which can significantly impact health outcomes and access to care.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states the patient's highest level of education is less than a high school diploma or GED. This information is often gathered during social history assessments or intake questionnaires. It helps to understand potential barriers to health literacy, employment, and socioeconomic stability.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies the patient's educational attainment.
• Do not infer educational status; it must be explicitly stated by the patient or caregiver.
• This code is typically used as a secondary diagnosis to provide context for the patient's primary medical conditions.