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ICD-10 Coding for Class 3 Obesity(E66.813)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Class 3 Obesity. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Morbid ObesitySevere Obesity

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Class 3 Obesity

E66.8-E66.9Primary Range

Obesity codes including specific classes and other obesity

This range includes specific codes for different classes of obesity, including class 3.

Body Mass Index (BMI) codes for adults

These codes are used to specify the BMI range, which is essential for classifying obesity.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for class 3 obesity

Essential facts and insights about Class 3 Obesity

The ICD-10 code for class 3 obesity is E66.813, used when BMI is ≥40.0 and 'class 3 obesity' is documented.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for class 3 obesity

Obesity, class 3 (BMI ≥40.0)
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • BMI ≥40.0 documented by provider

documentation Criteria

  • Explicit mention of 'class 3 obesity'

Applicable To

  • Morbid obesity

Excludes

  • Obesity hypoventilation syndrome (E66.2)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • BMI ≥40.0 documented by provider
  • Explicit documentation of 'class 3 obesity'

Code-Specific Risks

  • Using outdated codes like E66.01 when class 3 is documented

Coding Notes

  • Ensure BMI is documented by the provider and linked to the obesity diagnosis.

Ancillary Codes

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

BMI 40.0–44.9 (adult)

Z68.41
Use alongside E66.813 when BMI is documented in this range.

BMI 45.0–49.9 (adult)

Z68.42
Use alongside E66.813 when BMI is documented in this range.

Differential Codes

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

Morbid obesity due to excess calories

E66.01
Use only if class 3 is not documented.

Obesity hypoventilation syndrome

E66.2
Use if alveolar hypoventilation is present.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Class 3 Obesity to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code E66.813.

Impact

Clinical: Lack of specificity can affect treatment plans., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Financial: Potential for reduced reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Educate providers on the importance of specifying obesity class., Implement EHR prompts for class documentation.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to reduced reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with updated coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Code E66.813 instead.

Impact

High audit frequency for BMI codes without provider documentation.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure BMI is documented by the provider in every encounter.

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 Class 3 Obesity, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Class 3 Obesity

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Class 3 Obesity. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Progress Note for Obesity Management

Specialty: Internal Medicine

Required Elements

  • Assessment of obesity class
  • BMI documentation
  • Linkage to comorbidities

Example Documentation

**Assessment:** 1. Class 3 obesity (BMI 43.2). 2. Obstructive sleep apnea (G47.33) exacerbated by obesity. 3. Hypertension (I10). **Plan:** - Refer to bariatric surgery clinic. - Continue CPAP therapy.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Obese patient with HTN
Good Documentation Example
Class 3 obesity (BMI 42.0) contributing to essential hypertension (I10)
Explanation
The good example specifies the obesity class and links it to a comorbidity, improving clarity and coding accuracy.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Class 3 Obesity? Ask your questions below.

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