Severe Intellectual Disability (F72)
DSM-5-TR: Intellectual Developmental Disorder (Severe)
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
Severe intellectual disability accounts for approximately 3-4% of all intellectual disability cases.
Global Prevalence
Prevalence approximately 0.1-0.2% of the population.
Duration Requirement
Present from developmental period
Overview
Severe intellectual disability involves an approximate IQ range of 20–34, corresponding to a mental age of 3 to under 6 years. Continuous need for support and supervision. Communication is limited but some spoken language may develop. Co-occurring physical disabilities and neurological conditions are common.
Diagnostic Criteria (ICD-10)
Core Features
- IQ range approximately 20–34
- Marked degree of motor impairment
- Limited communication abilities
- Continuous need for support
Duration
Present from developmental period
Exclusion Criteria
- Acquired cognitive decline (use dementia codes)
Classification Boundaries
Includes
- Severe mental subnormality
Australian Clinical Context
Individuals with severe intellectual disability in Australia require significant daily support. NDIS provides comprehensive funding packages. Most live in supported accommodation or with family carers. Specialist disability health services are available in major centres.
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. 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
High rates of co-occurring physical conditions (epilepsy, sensory impairments, cerebral palsy). Comprehensive health assessments should be conducted regularly. Document communication methods and support needs.
Related Diagnostic Codes
ICD-10-AM diagnostic codes commonly associated with the Severe Intellectual Disability (F72).
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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