ICD-10 Coding for Bilateral Astigmatism(H52.223, H52.213, H52.203)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Bilateral Astigmatism. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Bilateral Astigmatism
H52.2Primary Range
Disorders of refraction and accommodation
This range includes all types of astigmatism, including bilateral cases.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| H52.223 | Regular astigmatism, bilateral | Use when keratometry confirms symmetrical astigmatism in both eyes. |
|
| H52.213 | Irregular astigmatism, bilateral | Use when corneal topography confirms irregular astigmatism in both eyes. |
|
| H52.203 | Unspecified astigmatism, bilateral | Use only when documentation cannot specify regularity despite testing. |
|
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 bilateral astigmatism
Essential facts and insights about Bilateral Astigmatism
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for astigmatism bilateral
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Symmetrical corneal curvature confirmed by keratometry
Applicable To
- Symmetrical corneal curvature defects in both eyes
Excludes
- Irregular astigmatism, bilateral (H52.213)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Keratometry or corneal topography showing symmetrical curvature
- Documentation of 'regular astigmatism bilateral'
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification if irregular astigmatism is present
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies 'regular' and 'bilateral' to avoid unspecified coding.
H52.213 - Irregular astigmatism, bilateral
Use when corneal topography confirms irregular astigmatism in both eyes.
Applicable To
- Asymmetrical corneal defects in both eyes
Excludes
- Regular astigmatism, bilateral (H52.223)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Corneal topography showing asymmetrical patterns
- Documentation of 'irregular astigmatism bilateral'
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation specifies 'irregular' and 'bilateral' to avoid unspecified coding.
H52.203 - Unspecified astigmatism, bilateral
Use only when documentation cannot specify regularity despite testing.
Applicable To
- Astigmatism without specification of type in both eyes
Excludes
- Regular astigmatism, bilateral (H52.223)
- Irregular astigmatism, bilateral (H52.213)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Lack of specific findings to determine regularity
Coding Notes
Avoid using unless absolutely necessary due to lack of specificity.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Bilateral Astigmatism to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code H52.223.
Impact
Clinical: Inaccurate patient records., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Financial: Potential claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Train staff on documentation requirements, Use templates that prompt for specific details
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to claim denials or reduced reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding specificity requirements., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of health records.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation specifies type and laterality of astigmatism.
Impact
Frequent use of unspecified codes can trigger audits.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation supports the most specific code possible.
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 Bilateral Astigmatism, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Bilateral Astigmatism
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Bilateral Astigmatism. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Routine eye exam with astigmatism diagnosis
Specialty: OptometryRequired Elements
- Visual acuity
- Keratometry results
- Astigmatism type and laterality
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Bilateral Astigmatism? Ask your questions below.