Runaway [from current living environment]

This code identifies a situation where an individual has left their established living environment without permission or intent to return, often due to underlying psychosocial issues. It signifies a departure from home or a supervised setting that is considered unauthorized and potentially puts the individual at risk.

Use this code when documenting a patient's history or current presentation that involves them having run away from their home, foster care, or other designated living arrangement. This may be relevant in emergency department visits, mental health evaluations, or when assessing the social determinants of health impacting a patient.

• Always sequence this code as a secondary diagnosis, as it describes a circumstance rather than a primary medical condition.
• Consider additional codes for underlying mental health conditions (e.g., F32.9, F43.21) or physical injuries sustained while runaway.
• Ensure documentation clearly states the patient's runaway status and its relevance to the encounter.