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ICD-10 Coding for First-Degree Atrioventricular Block(I44.0)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for First-Degree Atrioventricular Block. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

First-Degree AV Block1st Degree AV BlockFirst-Degree A-V Blockav block 1st degree

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to First-Degree Atrioventricular Block

I44-I49Primary Range

Conduction disorders

This range includes all conduction disorders, with I44.0 specifically for first-degree AV block.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for first-degree AV block

Essential facts and insights about First-Degree Atrioventricular Block

The ICD-10 code for first-degree atrioventricular block is I44.0, used when PR interval >200 ms.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for first degree atrioventricular block

Atrioventricular block, first degree
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • PR interval >200 ms on ECG

documentation Criteria

  • Specify symptoms or asymptomatic status

Applicable To

  • First-degree AV block

Excludes

  • Other types of heart block

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • PR interval >200 ms on ECG
  • Documentation of symptoms or asymptomatic status
  • Identification of underlying cause if present

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly coding without PR interval documentation
  • Not identifying and coding underlying causes

Coding Notes

  • Ensure PR interval is documented and any underlying cause is identified and coded first.

Ancillary Codes

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

Long term (current) use of anticoagulants

Z79.01
Use when AV block is medication-induced, such as by beta-blockers.

Differential Codes

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

Conduction disorder, unspecified

I45.9
Use when documentation lacks specificity or PR interval measurement.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting First-Degree Atrioventricular Block to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code I44.0.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment decisions., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Financial: Potential for denied claims.

Mitigation Strategy

Always assess and document potential causes of AV block., Use 'code first' instructions when applicable.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to denied claims due to insufficient documentation., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data and patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure PR interval >200 ms is documented in the medical record.

Impact

Lack of PR interval documentation can lead to audit issues.

Mitigation Strategy

Implement mandatory PR interval documentation for all AV block diagnoses.

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 First-Degree Atrioventricular Block, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for First-Degree Atrioventricular Block

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for First-Degree Atrioventricular Block. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Asymptomatic first-degree AV block

Specialty: Cardiology

Required Elements

  • PR interval measurement
  • Symptom status
  • Underlying cause if applicable

Example Documentation

PR interval 260 ms on ECG. Patient asymptomatic. No underlying cause identified.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
AV block noted.
Good Documentation Example
First-degree AV block with PR interval 280 ms, asymptomatic.
Explanation
The good example includes specific PR interval and symptom status, providing complete documentation.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for First-Degree Atrioventricular Block? Ask your questions below.

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