ICD-10 Coding for Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate(R70.0)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate
R70-R79Primary Range
Abnormal findings on examination of blood, without diagnosis
This range includes codes for abnormal blood test results, including elevated ESR.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for elevated ESR
Essential facts and insights about Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate
Primary ICD-10-CM Code for erythrocyte sedimentation rate
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- ESR result exceeds age and gender-specific normal range
coding Criteria
- Underlying condition known and documented
documentation Criteria
- Method of ESR measurement documented
Applicable To
- Elevated ESR
Excludes
- Specific conditions causing elevated ESR
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Westergren method result
- Patient age and gender for reference range
- Clinical correlation with symptoms or conditions
Code-Specific Risks
- Using as primary when a diagnosis is known
- Not specifying the method used
Coding Notes
- Ensure ESR is documented with method and clinical context.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Rheumatoid arthritis with rheumatoid factor of multiple sites without organ or systems involvement
M05.79Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Other specified abnormal findings of blood chemistry
R79.89Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R70.0.
Impact
Clinical: Potential misinterpretation of results., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Risk of claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Standardize lab report templates to include method., Educate staff on documentation requirements.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment leading to reimbursement issues., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Always use the underlying condition as the primary code and R70.0 as secondary.
Impact
Using R70.0 as a primary code without supporting documentation.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation supports the use of R70.0 as secondary.
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 Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Rheumatology Progress Note
Specialty: RheumatologyRequired Elements
- Assessment
- Data
- Plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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