ICD-10 Coding for Constipation Unspecified(K59.00)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Constipation Unspecified. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Constipation Unspecified
K59.0-K59.09Primary Range
Functional intestinal disorders
This range includes codes for various types of constipation, with K59.00 being used when the specific type or cause is not documented.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for constipation unspecified
Essential facts and insights about Constipation Unspecified
Primary ICD-10-CM Code for constipation unspecified
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Absence of specific cause or type for constipation
documentation Criteria
- Detailed symptom description and exclusion of secondary causes
Applicable To
- Chronic constipation without specific cause
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Infrequent bowel movements
- Hard stools
- Straining during defecation
- Absence of secondary causes
Code-Specific Risks
- Using K59.00 when a specific cause is identified can lead to audit issues.
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation excludes secondary causes and meets Rome IV criteria.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Fecal impaction
K56.41Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Constipation Unspecified to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K59.00.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to misdiagnosis or inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Increases risk of audit and non-compliance., Financial: Potential for denied claims or reduced reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure comprehensive documentation of symptoms and exclusion of secondary causes.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to lower reimbursement due to unspecified coding., Compliance: Increases risk of audit and compliance issues., Data Quality: Affects accuracy of clinical data and patient records.
Mitigation Strategy
Use the specific code for the identified cause, such as K59.03 for opioid-induced constipation.
Impact
Increased audit risk when using unspecified codes like K59.00.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation supports the use of unspecified codes and excludes secondary causes.
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 Constipation Unspecified, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Constipation Unspecified
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Constipation Unspecified. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Chronic Constipation in Primary Care
Specialty: Family MedicineRequired Elements
- Symptom duration
- Bowel movement frequency
- Stool consistency
- Exclusion of secondary causes
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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