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ICD-10 Coding for Apnea(G47.33)

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

Also known as:

Sleep ApneaObstructive Sleep ApneaOSA

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Apnea

G47.30-G47.39Primary Range

Sleep Apnea

This range includes codes for various types of sleep apnea, with G47.33 specifically for obstructive sleep apnea.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for obstructive sleep apnea

Essential facts and insights about Apnea

The ICD-10 code for obstructive sleep apnea is G47.33.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea (adult) (pediatric)
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • AHI ≥5 with symptoms or AHI ≥15

documentation Criteria

  • Documented PSG results and symptomatology

Applicable To

  • Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome

Excludes

  • Central sleep apnea (G47.31)
  • Newborn apnea (P28.3)
  • Obesity hypoventilation syndrome (E66.2)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • AHI ≥5 with symptoms or AHI ≥15 regardless of symptoms
  • Polysomnography (PSG) results
  • Epworth Sleepiness Scale score

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly coding for newborns
  • Missing documentation of AHI

Coding Notes

  • Ensure PSG results are documented and differentiate from central sleep apnea.

Ancillary Codes

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

Apnea, not elsewhere classified

R06.81
Use when apnea is observed but not confirmed as obstructive.

Differential Codes

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

Central sleep apnea

G47.31
Characterized by cessation of airflow without respiratory effort.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Apnea to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code G47.33.

Impact

Clinical: Inaccurate diagnosis, Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards, Financial: Potential claim denials

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure PSG results are included in the patient's chart

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to claim denials., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Use P28.3 for newborn apnea.

Impact

Lack of PSG results in the medical record

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure all PSG results are documented and accessible.

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

Documentation Templates for Apnea

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

OSA Diagnosis and Management

Specialty: Sleep Medicine

Required Elements

  • Chief complaint
  • History of present illness
  • Physical examination
  • Sleep study results
  • Treatment plan

Example Documentation

Chief Complaint: 'Excessive daytime sleepiness'. History: ESS 18/24, partner reports 45 apneic episodes/night. Physical: BMI 38.4, neck 18.9'. Testing: PSG AHI 48.7. Assessment: Severe OSA (G47.33). Plan: CPAP trial.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
OSA confirmed.
Good Documentation Example
Diagnostic PSG AHI 36.2, oxygen nadir 79%. ESS 16/24. BMI 37.6, neck 17.5'.
Explanation
The good example provides specific PSG results and symptomatology, supporting the diagnosis.

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

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