ICD-10 Coding for Fatigue, Unspecified Type(R53.83, R53.82, G93.32)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Fatigue, Unspecified Type. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Fatigue, Unspecified Type
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| R53.83 | Other fatigue | Use for acute or subacute fatigue lasting less than 6 months when no specific underlying condition is identified. |
|
| R53.82 | Chronic fatigue, unspecified | Use for chronic fatigue lasting 6 months or more when ME/CFS criteria are not met. |
|
| G93.32 | Chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) | Use when ME/CFS diagnostic criteria are met. |
|
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 unspecified fatigue
Essential facts and insights about Fatigue, Unspecified Type
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for fatigue unspecified type
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Fatigue lasting less than 6 months with no specific diagnosis.
documentation Criteria
- Detailed notes on fatigue impact and negative workup results.
Applicable To
- Fatigue NOS
- Lack of energy
- Lethargy
- Tiredness
Excludes
- Fatigue due to depressive disorder (F32-F33)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Persistent tiredness
- Lack of energy
- Normal lab results ruling out other causes
Code-Specific Risks
- May trigger audits if documentation is insufficient.
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies duration and excludes other causes.
R53.82 - Chronic fatigue, unspecified
Use for chronic fatigue lasting 6 months or more when ME/CFS criteria are not met.
Applicable To
- Chronic fatigue syndrome NOS
Excludes
- Chronic fatigue syndrome (G93.32)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Fatigue lasting 6 months or more
- No specific diagnosis like ME/CFS
Coding Notes
Document duration and exclusion of ME/CFS.
G93.32 - Chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS)
Use when ME/CFS diagnostic criteria are met.
Applicable To
- Myalgic encephalomyelitis
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Post-exertional malaise
- Unrefreshing sleep
- Cognitive impairment
Coding Notes
Ensure all ME/CFS criteria are documented.
Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Fatigue, Unspecified Type to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R53.83.
Impact
Clinical: Inadequate clinical assessment, Regulatory: Potential audit trigger, Financial: Reimbursement issues
Mitigation Strategy
Use specific descriptors, Include functional impact
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to lower DRG reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 updates., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data reporting.
Mitigation Strategy
Use G93.32 for ME/CFS cases.
Impact
Insufficient documentation may lead to audits.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure detailed documentation of symptoms and exclusions.
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 Fatigue, Unspecified Type, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Fatigue, Unspecified Type
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Fatigue, Unspecified Type. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Chronic fatigue documentation
Specialty: Internal MedicineRequired Elements
- Symptom duration
- Functional impact
- Negative lab results
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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