Mild Intellectual Disability (F70)
DSM-5-TR: Intellectual Developmental Disorder (Mild)
ICD-10-AM and DSM-5-TR may classify conditions differently. Refer to APA and WHO for complete diagnostic criteria.
Key Facts
ICD-10 Range
F70-F79
Australian Prevalence
Mild intellectual disability accounts for approximately 85% of all intellectual disability cases. NDIS provides support services.
Global Prevalence
Prevalence approximately 1-3% of the general population for all levels of intellectual disability combined.
Duration Requirement
Present from developmental period (before age 18)
Overview
Mild intellectual disability involves an approximate IQ range of 50–69, corresponding to a mental age of 9 to under 12 years. Most individuals acquire language and achieve independence in self-care and practical skills, though development is slower than normal. Most can work and maintain social relationships.
Diagnostic Criteria (ICD-10)
Core Features
- IQ range approximately 50–69
- Likely to result in some learning difficulties in school
- Many adults are able to work and maintain social relationships
- Can contribute to society in a supported environment
Duration
Present from developmental period (before age 18)
Exclusion Criteria
- Intellectual decline from a previously normal level (use dementia codes F00-F03)
Classification Boundaries
Includes
- Feeble-mindedness
- Mild mental subnormality
Excludes1 (coded elsewhere)
- Borderline intellectual functioning (R41.83)
Australian Clinical Context
In Australia, intellectual disability assessment typically involves psychologists using standardised IQ tests and adaptive behaviour assessments. NDIS provides funding for support services for eligible individuals. State and territory disability services offer additional support. Mild intellectual disability may not be identified until school entry.
Medicare (MBS) Pathways
Complex Neurodevelopmental Disorders
A Medicare pathway for assessment and treatment of complex neurodevelopmental disorders and eligible disabilities in individuals under 25. Covers multi-disciplinary assessment and ongoing treatment.
| Provider Type | MBS Items | Session Type |
|---|---|---|
| Psychologist | 82000–82035 | Assessment and treatment |
| Speech Pathologist | 82000–82035 | Assessment and treatment |
| Occupational Therapist | 82000–82035 | Assessment and treatment |
| Audiologist | 82000–82035 | Assessment |
| Physiotherapist | 82000–82035 | Assessment and treatment |
Psychologist
Speech Pathologist
Occupational Therapist
Audiologist
Physiotherapist
GP referral items: Item 135 (paediatrician/psychiatrist referral)
Eligibility: Under 25 years with impairment across 2 or more neurodevelopmental domains requiring complex multi-domain support. Referral by paediatrician or psychiatrist.
Exclusions:
- ADHD alone (use standard Better Access pathway)
- Over 25 years of age
Excluded from Better Access. Under-25s may access the CND pathway for assessment and treatment. Over-25s: NDIS-funded services or specialist referral.
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Reference information sourced from MBS Online (mbsonline.gov.au). Item availability, rebates, and eligibility criteria may change. This is not billing advice — always verify current items before claiming. Last verified: April 2026.
Clinical Documentation Notes
DSM-5-TR uses "Intellectual Developmental Disorder" and classifies severity by adaptive functioning rather than IQ alone. ICD-10-AM retains IQ-based classification. Document IQ score, adaptive functioning level, and support needs.
Related Diagnostic Codes
ICD-10-AM diagnostic codes commonly associated with the Mild Intellectual Disability (F70).
Frequently Asked Questions
References
- World Health Organization. ICD-10-AM.
- American Psychiatric Association. DSM-5-TR. 2022.
Clinical Scoring Calculator — Not a Diagnostic Tool
This tool calculates scores based on published guidelines for professional reference. It does not provide clinical diagnoses. Scores are provided as reference information only and should be interpreted by a qualified practitioner in the context of a comprehensive assessment.
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