ICD-10 Coding for Asthma Mild Intermittent(J45.20, J45.21, J45.22)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Asthma Mild Intermittent. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Asthma Mild Intermittent
J45.2xPrimary Range
ICD-10 code range for mild intermittent asthma
This range includes all codes related to mild intermittent asthma, specifying different complications.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| J45.20 | Mild intermittent asthma, uncomplicated | Use when the patient has mild intermittent asthma without any exacerbations or status asthmaticus. |
|
| J45.21 | Mild intermittent asthma with acute exacerbation | Use when the patient experiences an acute exacerbation of mild intermittent asthma. |
|
| J45.22 | Mild intermittent asthma with status asthmaticus | Use when the patient experiences status asthmaticus with mild intermittent asthma. |
|
Clinical Decision Support
Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for mild intermittent asthma
Essential facts and insights about Asthma Mild Intermittent
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for asthma mild intermittent
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Patient exhibits symptoms less than twice a week and has normal lung function.
Applicable To
- Mild intermittent asthma without complications
Excludes
- Mild persistent asthma (J45.3x)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Symptom frequency <2x/week daytime, <2x/month nighttime
- FEV1 ≥80% predicted
Code-Specific Risks
- Risk of undercoding if exacerbations are not documented
Coding Notes
- Ensure symptom frequency and FEV1 are documented to support the use of this code.
J45.21 - Mild intermittent asthma with acute exacerbation
Use when the patient experiences an acute exacerbation of mild intermittent asthma.
Applicable To
- Mild intermittent asthma with exacerbation
Excludes
- Status asthmaticus (J45.22)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Increased SABA use
- Documented trigger for exacerbation
Coding Notes
Document the specific trigger and treatment response to justify the exacerbation code.
J45.22 - Mild intermittent asthma with status asthmaticus
Use when the patient experiences status asthmaticus with mild intermittent asthma.
Applicable To
- Status asthmaticus in mild intermittent asthma
Excludes
- Acute exacerbation without status (J45.21)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Failure to respond to initial bronchodilator therapy
- Requires continuous nebulization or IV steroids
Coding Notes
Ensure detailed documentation of treatment failure and escalation to status asthmaticus.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Asthma Mild Intermittent to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code J45.20.
Impact
Clinical: Leads to inadequate treatment plans., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for reduced reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Always specify asthma type and severity., Use detailed documentation templates.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to lower reimbursement rates., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Results in inaccurate clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document and code the specific type and severity of asthma.
Impact
Failure to document severity can lead to audit findings.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement routine checks for documentation completeness.
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 Asthma Mild Intermittent, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Asthma Mild Intermittent
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Asthma Mild Intermittent. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Routine follow-up for mild intermittent asthma
Specialty: PulmonologyRequired Elements
- Symptom frequency
- FEV1 measurement
- Medication use
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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