Advancing Global Standards: Refining ICD-11 Codes for Hearing Loss

I'm excited to share our recent publication in the Official Journal of the American Aging Association (AGE), Geroscience named:

"International Consortium on Ageing-Related Pathologies (ICCARP) Audiovestibular Group: Fostering International Consensus to Refine International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) Codes for Hearing Loss Across the Life Course"

📅 Published: June 28, 2025
🔗 Read the full article

Overview

Hearing loss and balance disorders are among the most prevalent conditions affecting older adults worldwide. Accurate classification in the ICD-11 is critical for proper diagnosis, treatment, research, and public health planning.

This collaborative effort of the ICCARP Audiovestibular Group brings together international experts to:

• Review current ICD-11 coding for hearing and balance disorders.

• Identify gaps or ambiguities in the classification system.

• Propose refinements that reflect current clinical and scientific understanding.

Key Contributions

Enhanced Classification
- Clarifies subtypes of hearing loss, including sensorineural, conductive, and mixed forms.
- Addresses age-related progression, severity levels, and associated comorbidities.

Global Consensus
- Engaged experts across multiple countries to harmonize terminology and coding practices.
- Ensures consistency in reporting, research, and clinical care worldwide.

Impact on Healthcare and Research
- Facilitates accurate diagnosis, which improves patient management.
- Enables researchers to collect and compare epidemiological data internationally.
- Informs public health policy for preventive interventions and resource allocation.

Why This Work Matters 

Refining ICD-11 codes for hearing and balance disorders represents a significant step forward in bridging clinical practice, research, and public health policy. By providing more precise and nuanced coding, healthcare providers are better equipped to make informed decisions when diagnosing and treating patients with complex audiovestibular conditions. This level of clarity not only improves individual patient care but also facilitates more accurate and consistent data collection, which is essential for research across different populations and countries.

Moreover, these refinements have meaningful implications for policy development. With standardized classifications, healthcare systems can allocate resources more effectively, design targeted preventive interventions, and develop strategies that address the needs of aging populations. In essence, this work ensures that the care, study, and governance of hearing and balance disorders are all grounded in a common, internationally recognized framework, ultimately enhancing outcomes for individuals throughout the life course.