ICD-10 Coding for Impaired Mobility(Z74.09, R26.2, Z99.3)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Impaired Mobility. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Impaired Mobility
Z74-Z99Primary Range
Persons with potential health hazards related to family and personal history and certain conditions influencing health status
This range includes codes for conditions that affect mobility, such as Z74.09 for other reduced mobility.
Symptoms and signs involving the nervous and musculoskeletal systems
This range includes codes for gait and mobility abnormalities, such as R26.2 for difficulty walking.
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 | Other reduced mobility | Use when the patient has nonspecific mobility limitations not due to a specific underlying condition. |
|
| R26.2 | Difficulty in walking, not elsewhere classified | Use when the patient has difficulty walking without a specified underlying cause. |
|
| Z99.3 | Dependence on wheelchair | Use when the patient is dependent on a wheelchair for mobility. |
|
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 impaired mobility
Essential facts and insights about Impaired Mobility
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for impaired mobility
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Patient requires assistance with transfers or ambulation.
coding Criteria
- Code any underlying condition first if applicable.
Applicable To
- Generalized mobility impairment
Excludes
- Specific mobility impairments due to neurological or musculoskeletal conditions
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documentation of functional limitations in activities of daily living (ADLs)
- Use of assistive devices for mobility
Code-Specific Risks
- Should not be used as a principal diagnosis
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies the level of assistance required for mobility.
R26.2 - Difficulty in walking, not elsewhere classified
Use when the patient has difficulty walking without a specified underlying cause.
Applicable To
- Gait abnormality
Excludes
- Gait abnormalities due to specific conditions like Parkinson's disease
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Description of gait pattern and any environmental barriers
- Functional assessments such as the Timed Up & Go test
Coding Notes
Document specific gait abnormalities and any assistive devices used.
Z99.3 - Dependence on wheelchair
Use when the patient is dependent on a wheelchair for mobility.
Applicable To
- Full-time wheelchair use
Excludes
- Temporary wheelchair use due to acute conditions
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documentation of full-time wheelchair use
- Assessment of home accessibility needs
Coding Notes
Document the reason for wheelchair dependence and any related home modifications.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Dependence on wheelchair
Z99.3Differential 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 Impaired Mobility to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code Z74.09.
Impact
Clinical: Inadequate representation of patient needs., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for claim denials or reduced reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Use specific language to describe mobility limitations., Include quantitative assessments where possible.
Impact
Reimbursement: Claims may be denied if Z74.09 is used as a principal diagnosis., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate representation of patient condition.
Mitigation Strategy
Always code the underlying condition first if applicable.
Impact
Improper use of Z74.09 as a principal diagnosis.
Mitigation Strategy
Always code the underlying condition first if applicable.
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 Impaired Mobility, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Impaired Mobility
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Impaired Mobility. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Physical Therapy Progress Note
Specialty: Physical TherapyRequired Elements
- Subjective patient statements
- Objective functional assessments
- Assessment of mobility limitations
- Plan for therapy interventions
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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