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ICD-10 Coding for Indigestion(K30)

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

Also known as:

Functional DyspepsiaNon-ulcer DyspepsiaIdiopathic Dyspepsia

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Indigestion

K20-K31Primary Range

Diseases of esophagus, stomach and duodenum

This range includes codes for various gastrointestinal conditions, including functional dyspepsia (K30).

Key Information: ICD-10 code for indigestion

Essential facts and insights about Indigestion

The ICD-10 code for indigestion, specifically functional dyspepsia, is K30. It is used when symptoms persist for over 3 months with normal endoscopy findings.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for indigestion

Functional dyspepsia
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Symptoms persisting for more than 3 months with normal endoscopy

documentation Criteria

  • Absence of structural disease and negative H. pylori test

Applicable To

  • Non-ulcer dyspepsia
  • Idiopathic dyspepsia

Excludes

  • Dyspepsia NOS (R10.13)
  • Heartburn (R12)
  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (K21.-)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Symptoms persisting for more than 3 months
  • Normal endoscopy findings
  • Negative H. pylori test

Code-Specific Risks

  • Confusion with GERD or non-specific dyspepsia codes
  • Incorrect use without confirming functional dyspepsia criteria

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies 'functional dyspepsia' and excludes structural disease.

Ancillary Codes

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

Persons encountering health services in other specified circumstances

Z76.89
Use for encounters related to care coordination, such as nurse-led dietary modification.

Differential Codes

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

Gastroesophageal reflux disease without esophagitis

K21.9
Use when heartburn is the dominant symptom and confirmed by pH study.

Epigastric pain

R10.13
Use when epigastric pain is isolated and does not meet dyspepsia criteria.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Indigestion to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K30.

Impact

Clinical: Leads to misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims due to insufficient documentation.

Mitigation Strategy

Use specific terms like 'functional dyspepsia'., Document all relevant diagnostic tests.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment can affect reimbursement., Compliance: May lead to compliance issues during audits., Data Quality: Affects accuracy of clinical data and patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Use K21.9 if GERD is confirmed by symptoms and diagnostic tests.

Impact

Using K30 without confirming functional dyspepsia criteria.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation includes symptom duration and normal endoscopy.

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

Documentation Templates for Indigestion

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

Functional Dyspepsia Diagnosis

Specialty: Gastroenterology

Required Elements

  • Symptom duration
  • Endoscopy findings
  • H. pylori test results
  • Exclusion of other conditions

Example Documentation

Patient reports 5 months of postprandial fullness and early satiety. EGD normal. H. pylori negative. Diagnosed with functional dyspepsia (K30).

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Indigestion, treat with PPIs.
Good Documentation Example
Functional dyspepsia x4mo, normal EGD 03/2025, failed 8wk PPI trial.
Explanation
The good example provides specific diagnostic criteria and treatment history, supporting the use of K30.

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

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