ICD-10 Coding for Immobility(Z74.09, R26.2)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Immobility. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Immobility
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Z74.09 | Reduced mobility | Use when the patient has reduced mobility without a specific underlying condition. |
|
| R26.2 | Difficulty in walking, not elsewhere classified | Use when the patient has difficulty walking without assistive devices. |
|
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 immobility
Essential facts and insights about Immobility
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for immobility
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Patient requires moderate assistance for bed-to-chair transfers.
documentation Criteria
- Document specific mobility limitations and assistance required.
Applicable To
- Generalized immobility
- Post-surgical deconditioning
Excludes
- Wheelchair dependence (Z99.3)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Patient requires assistance for transfers
- ROM <50% of normal
- MMT ≤3/5 in major muscle groups
Code-Specific Risks
- Using without documenting specific mobility limitations
- Confusing with wheelchair dependence
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation supports the need for assistance due to reduced mobility.
R26.2 - Difficulty in walking, not elsewhere classified
Use when the patient has difficulty walking without assistive devices.
Applicable To
- Unsteady gait
- Fear of falling
Excludes
- Paralysis (G83.x)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Gait velocity <0.4 m/s
- Requires assistive device for ambulation
Coding Notes
Document specific gait assessments and limitations.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Immobility to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code Z74.09.
Impact
Clinical: Misrepresents patient mobility status., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Financial: Potential for denied claims.
Mitigation Strategy
Use Z99.3 for wheelchair dependence., Ensure documentation supports code selection.
Impact
Reimbursement: May result in denied claims if documentation is insufficient., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate representation of patient condition.
Mitigation Strategy
Document specific assistance required and mobility limitations.
Impact
Insufficient documentation can lead to audits.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure detailed documentation of mobility assessments and assistance required.
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 Immobility, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Immobility
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Immobility. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Physical Therapy Evaluation
Specialty: Physical TherapyRequired Elements
- Transfers: Level of assistance required
- Ambulation: Distance and assistive devices
- Functional limitations: Specific tasks affected
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Immobility? Ask your questions below.