ICD-10 Coding for Elevated C-Reactive Protein(R79.82)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Elevated C-Reactive Protein. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Elevated C-Reactive Protein
R70-R79Primary Range
Abnormal findings on examination of blood, without diagnosis
This range includes codes for abnormal blood chemistry findings, including elevated CRP.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for elevated C-reactive protein
Essential facts and insights about Elevated C-Reactive Protein
Primary ICD-10-CM Code for elevated c reactive protein
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- CRP level above 0.9 mg/dL with a documented cause
coding Criteria
- Do not use as a principal diagnosis
Applicable To
- Elevated CRP
Excludes
- Specific conditions causing elevated CRP
Clinical Validation Requirements
- CRP level above 0.9 mg/dL
- Documentation of underlying condition causing CRP elevation
Code-Specific Risks
- Using as a principal diagnosis without an underlying condition
Coding Notes
- Always sequence after the code for the underlying condition.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Elevated C-Reactive Protein to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R79.82.
Impact
Clinical: Lack of specificity in patient records., Regulatory: Potential non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Risk of claim denial due to insufficient documentation.
Mitigation Strategy
Always include numerical CRP values in documentation., Ensure linkage to an underlying condition.
Impact
Reimbursement: Claims may be denied if R79.82 is used as a principal diagnosis., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate representation of the patient's condition.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure an underlying condition is coded as the principal diagnosis.
Impact
High risk of audit if R79.82 is used without a documented cause.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document and code the underlying condition first.
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 Elevated C-Reactive Protein, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Elevated C-Reactive Protein
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Elevated C-Reactive Protein. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Patient with elevated CRP due to infection
Specialty: Infectious DiseaseRequired Elements
- CRP level
- Underlying infection diagnosis
- Treatment plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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