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ICD-10 Coding for Body Mass Index 30(E66.9, Z68.30)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Body Mass Index 30. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

BMI 30Obesity Class 1

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Body Mass Index 30

E66-E66.9Primary Range

Obesity codes

This range includes codes for obesity, which are primary when documenting BMI 30 with a provider's diagnosis.

Body mass index (BMI) 30.0-39.9, adult

This range includes BMI codes used as ancillary to support obesity diagnosis.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
E66.9Obesity, unspecifiedUse when the provider documents 'obesity' without specifying the cause.
  • Provider documentation of 'obesity'
  • BMI ≥30
Z68.30Body mass index (BMI) 30.0-30.9, adultUse as a secondary code when BMI is documented and linked to a weight-related diagnosis.
  • Documented BMI value between 30.0 and 30.9

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 BMI 30

Essential facts and insights about Body Mass Index 30

The ICD-10 code for BMI 30 is Z68.30, used as a secondary code when documented alongside a primary obesity diagnosis.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for body mass index 30

Obesity, unspecified
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • BMI ≥30 with provider diagnosis of obesity

documentation Criteria

  • Provider must document obesity explicitly

Applicable To

  • Obesity not otherwise specified

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Provider documentation of 'obesity'
  • BMI ≥30

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrect use without provider's explicit diagnosis

Coding Notes

  • Ensure provider has documented obesity; BMI alone is insufficient.

Ancillary Codes

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

BMI 30.0-30.9, adult

Z68.30
Use as a secondary code when BMI is documented alongside an obesity diagnosis.

Differential Codes

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

Morbid (severe) obesity due to excess calories

E66.01
Use when obesity is explicitly linked to excess caloric intake.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Body Mass Index 30 to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code E66.9.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment plans., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Educate providers on documentation requirements, Implement EHR alerts for missing diagnoses

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to claim denials if not linked to a primary diagnosis., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate data representation in patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure provider documents obesity or overweight explicitly.

Impact

Coding BMI without a linked diagnosis can lead to audit issues.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure all BMI codes are supported by a documented diagnosis.

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 Body Mass Index 30, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Body Mass Index 30

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Body Mass Index 30. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Preventive Visit

Specialty: Primary Care

Required Elements

  • BMI value
  • Provider's diagnosis of obesity
  • Plan for weight management

Example Documentation

Patient presents with BMI 30.4. Diagnosed with obesity, class 1 (E66.9). Plan includes dietary counseling.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Vitals: Wt 200 lbs, Ht 68 in
Good Documentation Example
BMI 30.4 (200 lbs/68 in). Diagnosed obesity class 1 (E66.9). Discussed weight management strategies.
Explanation
Good example includes BMI calculation and provider's diagnosis, allowing for accurate coding.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Body Mass Index 30? Ask your questions below.

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