Presence of external hearing-aid

This code indicates that a patient currently uses an external hearing aid. It signifies the presence of a device designed to improve hearing by amplifying sound, which is worn on or in the ear. This code does not specify the type or cause of hearing loss, only the presence of the assistive device.

This code is used when documenting a patient's current use of an external hearing aid, often as a secondary diagnosis. It is appropriate for routine follow-up visits, medication management, or any encounter where the presence of the hearing aid is relevant to the patient's overall health status or care plan. It should be reported in conjunction with a code for the underlying hearing loss.

• Always code the underlying hearing loss first, then use this code as a secondary diagnosis.
• Do not use this code for surgically implanted hearing devices (e.g., cochlear implants, bone-anchored hearing aids).
• This code indicates current use; do not use if the patient previously used a hearing aid but no longer does.