Fear of blood

This code signifies a specific phobia characterized by an intense, irrational, and persistent fear of blood. Individuals experience significant anxiety or panic attacks upon exposure to blood, or even the anticipation of seeing blood, leading to avoidance behaviors. This fear is disproportionate to the actual danger posed by blood.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of hemophobia, a type of specific phobia. This diagnosis is typically made by a mental health professional based on diagnostic criteria, including marked fear or anxiety about blood, immediate anxiety response, active avoidance, and significant distress or impairment in functioning.

• Differentiate from generalized anxiety or panic disorder; the fear must be specifically triggered by blood.
• Ensure the documentation specifies "fear of blood" rather than a general fear of medical procedures or needles, which are distinct phobias.
• Code only when the phobia causes clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.