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ICD-10 Coding for C-Reactive Protein Screening(R79.82, Z13.6)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for C-Reactive Protein Screening. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

CRP Tesths-CRP Screening

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to C-Reactive Protein Screening

R70-R79Primary Range

Abnormal findings on examination of blood, without diagnosis

This range includes codes for abnormal blood test results, including elevated CRP.

Encounter for screening for other diseases and disorders

This range is relevant for coding screening encounters, including cardiovascular risk assessments using CRP.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
R79.82Elevated C-reactive protein (CRP)Use when CRP is elevated and linked to a specific condition.
  • CRP level >0.9 mg/dL
  • Documented underlying condition causing inflammation
Z13.6Encounter for screening for cardiovascular disordersUse for screening encounters with documented risk factors.
  • Presence of 2+ cardiovascular risk factors

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 elevated C-reactive protein

Essential facts and insights about C-Reactive Protein Screening

The ICD-10 code for elevated C-reactive protein is R79.82, used when CRP levels are above 0.9 mg/dL with a documented underlying condition.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for c reactive protein screening

Elevated C-reactive protein (CRP)
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • CRP level >0.9 mg/dL with documented inflammation

coding Criteria

  • Sequence after primary diagnosis code

Applicable To

  • Elevated CRP due to inflammation

Excludes

  • Normal CRP levels

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • CRP level >0.9 mg/dL
  • Documented underlying condition causing inflammation

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly using as a primary code

Coding Notes

  • Ensure CRP levels and underlying conditions are documented.

Ancillary Codes

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

Encounter for screening for cardiovascular disorders

Z13.6
Use for CRP screening in high-risk cardiovascular patients.

Differential Codes

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

Encounter for general adult medical examination without abnormal findings

Z00.00
Use Z00.00 for routine check-ups without symptoms or elevated CRP.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting C-Reactive Protein Screening to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R79.82.

Impact

Clinical: Inadequate information for clinical decision-making., Regulatory: Potential for audit issues due to incomplete documentation., Financial: Risk of claim denials due to insufficient documentation.

Mitigation Strategy

Use templates that prompt for CRP values, Regular training on documentation standards

Impact

Reimbursement: Claims may be denied if R79.82 is used as primary., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 sequencing rules., Data Quality: Inaccurate representation of patient's condition.

Mitigation Strategy

Always pair R79.82 with a primary code for the underlying condition.

Impact

R79.82 used as a primary code without an underlying condition.

Mitigation Strategy

Educate coders on proper sequencing rules.

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 C-Reactive Protein Screening, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for C-Reactive Protein Screening

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for C-Reactive Protein Screening. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

CRP Screening in Rheumatology

Specialty: Rheumatology

Required Elements

  • Patient symptoms
  • CRP level and method
  • Interpretation of results
  • Link to underlying condition

Example Documentation

Patient presents with joint pain. CRP 14.2 mg/dL (hs-CRP). Consistent with rheumatoid arthritis flare.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
CRP elevated. Monitor.
Good Documentation Example
CRP 8.2 mg/dL (Ref: <0.9) via hs-CRP testing, consistent with active rheumatoid arthritis flare. No evidence of infection.
Explanation
The good example provides specific CRP values, testing method, and links to the underlying condition.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for C-Reactive Protein Screening? Ask your questions below.

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