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ICD-10 Coding for Abnormal Stress Test(R94.39)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Abnormal Stress Test. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Abnormal Cardiovascular Stress TestPositive Stress Test

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Abnormal Stress Test

R94.3Primary Range

Abnormal results of cardiovascular function studies

This range includes codes for abnormal findings in cardiovascular function tests, including stress tests.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for abnormal stress test

Essential facts and insights about Abnormal Stress Test

The ICD-10 code for an abnormal stress test is R94.39, used for abnormal cardiovascular function study results.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for abnormal stress test

Abnormal result of other cardiovascular function study
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of ECG changes or symptoms during stress test

Applicable To

  • Abnormal stress test findings

Excludes

  • Definitive diagnosis of coronary artery disease

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • ECG changes such as ST depression
  • Symptoms like chest pain or dyspnea during test
  • Hemodynamic instability during test

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification if definitive CAD is diagnosed

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies the type of stress test and specific findings.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Angina pectoris, unspecified

I20.9
Use if chest pain occurs during the stress test.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Abnormal electrocardiogram [ECG] [EKG]

R94.31
Use R94.31 for abnormal ECG findings not specific to stress tests.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Abnormal Stress Test to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R94.39.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to misinterpretation of test results., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials due to insufficient documentation.

Mitigation Strategy

Use structured templates for documentation, Ensure all test findings are recorded

Impact

Reimbursement: Potential underpayment if incorrect code is used., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure R94.39 is used for stress test-specific abnormalities.

Impact

Inadequate documentation can lead to audit issues.

Mitigation Strategy

Use detailed templates and ensure all findings are documented.

Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Abnormal Stress Test, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Abnormal Stress Test

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Abnormal Stress Test. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Abnormal Stress Test Documentation

Specialty: Cardiology

Required Elements

  • Type of stressor
  • ECG changes
  • Symptoms during test
  • Hemodynamic response
  • Comparison to prior studies

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Abnormal stress test - needs follow-up
Good Documentation Example
Bruce protocol terminated at 5:30 due to 3 mm downsloping ST depression in V2-V4 with associated chest pressure.
Explanation
The good example provides specific findings and context, improving clarity and coding accuracy.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Abnormal Stress Test? Ask your questions below.

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