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ICD-10 Coding for Diabetes Unspecified(E11.9)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Diabetes Unspecified. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Diabetes Mellitus UnspecifiedUnspecified Diabetes

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Diabetes Unspecified

E08-E13Primary Range

Diabetes mellitus

This range includes all types of diabetes mellitus, including unspecified types.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for unspecified diabetes

Essential facts and insights about Diabetes Unspecified

The ICD-10 code for unspecified diabetes is E11.9, used when the type is not specified and no complications are documented.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for diabetes unspecified

Type 2 diabetes mellitus without complications
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

documentation Criteria

  • Type of diabetes is not specified in the medical record.

Applicable To

  • Diabetes mellitus type 2
  • Non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus

Excludes

  • Type 1 diabetes mellitus (E10.-)
  • Gestational diabetes (O24.4-)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • HbA1c ≥6.5%
  • Fasting glucose >126 mg/dL on 2 occasions
  • Random glucose >200 mg/dL with symptoms

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrect use when complications are present but not documented.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies type and control status to avoid defaulting to E11.9.

Ancillary Codes

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

Long-term (current) use of insulin

Z79.4
Use when patient is on long-term insulin therapy.

Differential Codes

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

Type 1 diabetes mellitus without complications

E10.9
Presence of autoantibodies or insulin dependence from diagnosis.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Diabetes Unspecified to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code E11.9.

Impact

Clinical: May not reflect true patient condition., Regulatory: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding standards., Financial: Potential for incorrect billing and reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Always document glucose levels when stating control status., Use specific terms like 'hyperglycemia' or 'hypoglycemia'.

Impact

Reimbursement: May result in lower reimbursement due to incorrect risk adjustment., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure all complications are documented and linked to diabetes.

Impact

Failure to document linkage between diabetes and complications.

Mitigation Strategy

Use specific language to link complications to diabetes.

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 Diabetes Unspecified, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Diabetes Unspecified

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Diabetes Unspecified. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Routine diabetes management

Specialty: Endocrinology

Required Elements

  • Type of diabetes
  • Control status
  • Complications
  • Treatment plan

Example Documentation

Patient with type 2 diabetes, well-controlled with metformin, HbA1c 6.8%, no complications.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Diabetes managed with medication.
Good Documentation Example
Type 2 diabetes mellitus, well-controlled, HbA1c 6.8%, managed with metformin.
Explanation
Specifies type, control status, and treatment, providing a complete clinical picture.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Diabetes Unspecified? Ask your questions below.

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