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ICD-10 Coding for Hemodialysis(N18.6, Z99.2)

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

Also known as:

Renal DialysisKidney Dialysis

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Hemodialysis

N18-N19Primary Range

Chronic kidney disease and other kidney disorders

This range includes codes for chronic kidney disease stages and end-stage renal disease, which are directly related to hemodialysis.

Dependence on enabling machines and devices, not elsewhere classified

This range includes codes for dependence on renal dialysis, which is relevant for patients undergoing hemodialysis.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
N18.6End stage renal diseaseUse when the patient has end-stage renal disease requiring hemodialysis.
  • eGFR <15 mL/min/1.73m² for ≥3 months
Z99.2Dependence on renal dialysisUse when documenting a patient's ongoing dialysis treatment.
  • Documentation of regular dialysis sessions

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 hemodialysis

Essential facts and insights about Hemodialysis

The ICD-10 code for end-stage renal disease requiring hemodialysis is N18.6, with Z99.2 indicating dialysis dependence.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for hemodialysis

End stage renal disease
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Patient requires hemodialysis due to ESRD.

Applicable To

  • Chronic kidney disease stage 5 requiring dialysis

Excludes

  • Acute kidney failure (N17.-)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • eGFR <15 mL/min/1.73m² for ≥3 months

Code-Specific Risks

  • Confusing with other stages of CKD
  • Not linking to underlying cause

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies ESRD and dialysis dependence.

Ancillary Codes

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

Dependence on renal dialysis

Z99.2
Use to indicate the patient is dependent on dialysis.

Differential Codes

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

Chronic kidney disease, stage 5

N18.5
Use N18.5 when CKD stage 5 is present without dialysis dependence.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Hemodialysis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code N18.6.

Impact

Clinical: Incomplete patient treatment record, Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards, Financial: Potential claim denials

Mitigation Strategy

Review coding guidelines regularly, Use checklists for dialysis documentation

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Use N18.6 for ESRD and Z99.2 for dialysis dependence.

Impact

Incomplete documentation of dialysis sessions can lead to audits.

Mitigation Strategy

Use standardized templates and checklists.

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

Documentation Templates for Hemodialysis

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

Routine Hemodialysis Session

Specialty: Nephrology

Required Elements

  • Patient weight pre- and post-dialysis
  • Access site condition
  • Vital signs monitoring

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient had dialysis.
Good Documentation Example
Patient underwent hemodialysis via left AV fistula. Pre-dialysis weight: 80kg, post-dialysis weight: 77kg. No complications noted.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details about the procedure and patient status.

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

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