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ICD-10 Coding for Decreased Glomerular Filtration Rate(N18.30, N18.6)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Decreased Glomerular Filtration Rate. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Reduced GFRLow Glomerular Filtration Rate

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Decreased Glomerular Filtration Rate

N18.1-N18.9Primary Range

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) stages 1-5 and end-stage renal disease

This range covers the stages of CKD, which are directly related to decreased GFR.

Abnormal results of kidney function studies

Used when decreased GFR is noted without a CKD diagnosis.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
N18.30Chronic kidney disease, stage 3 unspecifiedUse when CKD stage 3 is diagnosed without further specification into 3a or 3b.
  • GFR between 30-59 mL/min/1.73m²
  • Persistent for >3 months
N18.6End stage renal diseaseUse when the patient is on dialysis due to ESRD.
  • GFR <15 mL/min/1.73m²
  • Patient on dialysis

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 decreased GFR

Essential facts and insights about Decreased Glomerular Filtration Rate

The ICD-10 code for decreased GFR varies by CKD stage, such as N18.30 for stage 3 unspecified.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for decreased glomerular filtration rate

Chronic kidney disease, stage 3 unspecified
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • GFR between 30-59 mL/min/1.73m² for >3 months

Applicable To

  • CKD stage 3

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • GFR between 30-59 mL/min/1.73m²
  • Persistent for >3 months

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrect staging can affect reimbursement and compliance.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure accurate documentation of GFR values and persistence over time.

Ancillary Codes

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

Dependence on renal dialysis

Z99.2
Use with N18.6 to indicate dialysis dependence.

Differential Codes

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

Chronic kidney disease, stage 3a

N18.31
GFR between 45-59 mL/min/1.73m²

Chronic kidney disease, stage 3b

N18.32
GFR between 30-44 mL/min/1.73m²

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Decreased Glomerular Filtration Rate to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code N18.30.

Impact

Clinical: Inaccurate assessment of CKD progression., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Always include GFR in clinical notes., Use templates to ensure completeness.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect billing can lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure dialysis is documented before using N18.6.

Impact

Incorrect staging can lead to audit flags.

Mitigation Strategy

Regularly review GFR values and update documentation.

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 Decreased Glomerular Filtration Rate, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Decreased Glomerular Filtration Rate

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Decreased Glomerular Filtration Rate. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Chronic Kidney Disease Management

Specialty: Nephrology

Required Elements

  • GFR value
  • CKD stage
  • Etiology
  • Treatment plan

Example Documentation

GFR 45 mL/min/1.73m² consistent with Stage 3a CKD, likely secondary to diabetes. Plan: Continue ACE inhibitor, monitor renal function.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Renal insufficiency
Good Documentation Example
Stage 3b CKD (GFR 38 mL/min/1.73m²), stable for 6 months
Explanation
The good example provides specific staging and GFR value, meeting documentation requirements.

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