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ICD-10 Coding for Annual Mammogram(Z12.31)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Annual Mammogram. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Breast Cancer ScreeningRoutine Mammogram

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Annual Mammogram

Z12-Z13Primary Range

Encounter for screening for malignant neoplasms

This range includes codes for routine screening for breast cancer, which is the primary purpose of an annual mammogram.

Family and personal history of malignant neoplasm

These codes are used to indicate a family or personal history of breast cancer, which can influence screening protocols.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for annual mammogram

Essential facts and insights about Annual Mammogram

The ICD-10 code for an annual screening mammogram is Z12.31, used for routine breast cancer screening in asymptomatic patients.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for annual mammogram

Encounter for screening mammogram for malignant neoplasm of breast
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Patient is asymptomatic and presents for routine screening.

coding Criteria

  • Ensure no diagnostic intent is documented.

Applicable To

  • Routine screening mammogram

Excludes

  • Diagnostic mammogram (R92.8)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Patient is asymptomatic
  • No current breast symptoms
  • Routine screening intent

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misuse for diagnostic purposes
  • Incorrect sequencing with history codes

Coding Notes

  • Always sequence Z12.31 first for screening mammograms.

Ancillary Codes

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

Family history of malignant neoplasm of breast

Z80.3
Use when there is a documented family history of breast cancer.

Personal history of malignant neoplasm of breast

Z85.3
Use when there is a documented personal history of breast cancer.

Differential Codes

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

Other abnormal and inconclusive findings on diagnostic imaging of breast

R92.8
Use R92.8 for diagnostic mammograms following abnormal screening results.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Annual Mammogram to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code Z12.31.

Impact

Clinical: Leads to incorrect coding and potential misinterpretation of the patient's care plan., Regulatory: Increases risk of audit due to unclear documentation., Financial: May result in denied claims or reduced reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure clear documentation of screening intent., Use templates to standardize documentation.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims., Compliance: Misuse can trigger audits., Data Quality: Affects accuracy of health records.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation specifies 'screening' and not 'diagnostic'.

Impact

Using Z12.31 for diagnostic purposes can trigger audits.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation clearly states the screening intent.

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 Annual Mammogram, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Annual Mammogram

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Annual Mammogram. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Routine Screening Mammogram

Specialty: Radiology

Required Elements

  • Indication for screening
  • Technique used
  • Comparison with prior studies
  • Breast composition
  • Findings and recommendations

Example Documentation

52-year-old female presenting for annual screening mammogram. No breast complaints. Bilateral digital breast tomosynthesis with CAD performed. Compared to prior mammograms from 03/2024. No masses or suspicious calcifications. BI-RADS 1 – Negative.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Mammogram done.
Good Documentation Example
Screening digital breast tomosynthesis performed per ACS guidelines for asymptomatic 45yo female with family history (mother BRCA+). Comparison made to 2024 study. Bilateral MLO and CC views obtained with CAD.
Explanation
The good example specifies the screening intent, technique, family history, and comparison, ensuring compliance and clarity.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Annual Mammogram? Ask your questions below.

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