ICD-10 Coding for Decreased Renal Function(N18.1, N18.6)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Decreased Renal Function. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Decreased Renal Function
N17-N19Primary Range
Acute kidney failure and chronic kidney disease
This range includes codes for acute kidney injury (AKI), chronic kidney disease (CKD), and unspecified kidney failure, which are directly related to decreased renal function.
Hypertensive kidney disease
These codes are used when decreased renal function is due to hypertension.
Type 2 diabetes mellitus with diabetic chronic kidney disease
This code is used when decreased renal function is associated with diabetes.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| N18.1 | Chronic kidney disease, stage 1 | Use when CKD stage 1 is documented with supporting eGFR and kidney damage evidence. |
|
| N18.6 | End stage renal disease | Use when ESRD is documented and patient is 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 renal function
Essential facts and insights about Decreased Renal Function
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for decreased renal function
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- eGFR consistently 90 or greater with evidence of kidney damage.
Applicable To
- CKD stage 1
Excludes
- Acute kidney failure (N17.-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- eGFR 90 or greater with evidence of kidney damage
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification if eGFR is not consistently above 90.
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies CKD stage and supporting lab results.
N18.6 - End stage renal disease
Use when ESRD is documented and patient is on dialysis.
Applicable To
- ESRD
Excludes
- Acute kidney failure (N17.-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- eGFR less than 15 and patient on dialysis
Coding Notes
Ensure dialysis is documented in the medical record.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Dependence on renal dialysis
Z99.2Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Decreased Renal Function to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code N18.1.
Impact
Clinical: Inaccurate representation of patient's condition., Regulatory: Potential audit issues., Financial: Missed opportunities for appropriate reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Always assess and document underlying causes.
Impact
Reimbursement: Potential underpayment due to lack of specificity., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document and code the specific stage of CKD.
Impact
Inaccurate staging due to lack of documentation.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement mandatory eGFR documentation for CKD patients.
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 Renal Function, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Decreased Renal Function
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Decreased Renal Function. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Chronic Kidney Disease Management
Specialty: NephrologyRequired Elements
- Stage of CKD
- eGFR values
- Dialysis status
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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