Adult neglect or abandonment, confirmed, initial encounter

This diagnosis code signifies a confirmed case of neglect or abandonment experienced by an adult patient. It indicates that the patient's basic needs for care, sustenance, or safety have been unmet due to the actions or inactions of a caregiver or responsible party, and this is the first time this specific neglect or abandonment is being addressed.

Use this code when documentation clearly states that an adult patient has been neglected or abandoned, and this finding has been substantiated. This is appropriate for the initial assessment and treatment of the patient's physical, psychological, or social consequences directly resulting from the neglect or abandonment.

• Ensure the medical record explicitly confirms the neglect or abandonment, not just suspicion.
• Pair this code with other codes describing the specific injuries, illnesses, or conditions resulting from the neglect.
• Verify that this is indeed the "initial encounter" for the treatment of this specific incident of neglect or abandonment.