ICD-10 Coding for Bilateral Foot Pain(M79.671, M79.672, M79.673)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Bilateral Foot Pain. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Bilateral Foot Pain
M79.67-Primary Range
Pain in foot and toes
This range includes specific codes for pain in the right, left, and unspecified foot, which are used to document bilateral foot pain by coding each foot separately.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| M79.671 | Pain in right foot | Use when documenting pain specifically in the right foot, especially in bilateral cases. |
|
| M79.672 | Pain in left foot | Use when documenting pain specifically in the left foot, especially in bilateral cases. |
|
| M79.673 | Pain in unspecified foot | Use only when documentation does not specify laterality. |
|
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 foot pain
Essential facts and insights about Bilateral Foot Pain
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for bilateral foot pain
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of pain localized to the right foot
Applicable To
- Localized pain in the right foot
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Localized tenderness on palpation
- Functional limitation such as gait disturbance
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrect use when laterality is not specified
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies right foot pain to avoid unspecified coding.
M79.672 - Pain in left foot
Use when documenting pain specifically in the left foot, especially in bilateral cases.
Applicable To
- Localized pain in the left foot
Excludes
- Pain in right foot (M79.671)
- Unspecified foot pain (M79.673)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Localized tenderness on palpation
- Functional limitation such as gait disturbance
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation specifies left foot pain to avoid unspecified coding.
M79.673 - Pain in unspecified foot
Use only when documentation does not specify laterality.
Applicable To
- Foot pain without specified laterality
Excludes
- Pain in right foot (M79.671)
- Pain in left foot (M79.672)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Generalized foot pain without specific laterality
Coding Notes
Avoid using if laterality is documented.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Diabetic neuropathy
E11.51Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Bilateral Foot Pain to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M79.671.
Impact
Clinical: Inaccurate treatment planning., Regulatory: Potential audit issues., Financial: Incorrect billing and reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document laterality in clinical notes., Use templates to ensure completeness.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to incorrect DRG assignment affecting reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Use M79.671 and M79.672 for bilateral cases when laterality is specified.
Impact
Using M79.673 when laterality is documented.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation specifies laterality and use appropriate codes.
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 Foot Pain, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Bilateral Foot Pain
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Bilateral Foot Pain. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Bilateral Foot Pain in Diabetic Patient
Specialty: PodiatryRequired Elements
- Patient history
- Pain description and laterality
- Clinical findings
- Diagnostic tests
- Treatment plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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