ICD-10 Coding for Iron Deficiency(D50.0, D50.8, D50.9, E61.1)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Iron Deficiency. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Iron Deficiency
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| D50.0 | Iron deficiency anemia secondary to blood loss (chronic) | Use when chronic blood loss is documented as the cause of anemia. |
|
| D50.8 | Other iron deficiency anemias | Use when specific causes like dietary deficiency are documented. |
|
| D50.9 | Iron deficiency anemia, unspecified | Use when no specific cause of iron deficiency anemia is documented. |
|
| E61.1 | Iron deficiency | Use when iron deficiency is present without anemia. |
|
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 iron deficiency anemia
Essential facts and insights about Iron Deficiency
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for iron deficiency
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Chronic blood loss confirmed by clinical evaluation
Applicable To
- Chronic blood loss anemia
Excludes
- Acute posthemorrhagic anemia (D62)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Ferritin <12 ng/mL
- Elevated TIBC
- Hgb <12 g/dL (women) or <13 g/dL (men)
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrectly using for acute blood loss
- Missing documentation of chronicity
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies chronic blood loss and its source.
D50.8 - Other iron deficiency anemias
Use when specific causes like dietary deficiency are documented.
Applicable To
- Iron deficiency anemia due to inadequate dietary intake
Excludes
- Iron deficiency without anemia (E61.1)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Transferrin saturation <16%
- MCV <80 fL
Coding Notes
Document specific cause of iron deficiency.
D50.9 - Iron deficiency anemia, unspecified
Use when no specific cause of iron deficiency anemia is documented.
Applicable To
- Iron deficiency anemia NOS
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Low ferritin and hemoglobin levels without specified cause
Coding Notes
Avoid use when specific cause is known.
E61.1 - Iron deficiency
Use when iron deficiency is present without anemia.
Applicable To
- Iron deficiency without anemia
Excludes
- Iron deficiency anemia (D50.-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Low ferritin with normal hemoglobin levels
Coding Notes
Ensure hemoglobin levels are normal.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Gastrointestinal hemorrhage, unspecified
K92.2Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Iron Deficiency to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code D50.0.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to incorrect treatment plans., Regulatory: Increases risk of audits and penalties., Financial: Potential for denied claims and reduced reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Train staff on documentation requirements, Use templates to ensure completeness
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to lower reimbursement due to lack of specificity., Compliance: Increases risk of audit and non-compliance., Data Quality: Reduces data accuracy and quality.
Mitigation Strategy
Use the specific code (e.g., D50.0 or D50.8) when the cause is known.
Impact
High audit risk due to lack of specificity.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation supports the most specific code possible.
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 Iron Deficiency, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Iron Deficiency
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Iron Deficiency. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Chronic GI Bleed
Specialty: GastroenterologyRequired Elements
- Patient history of GI symptoms
- Lab results including ferritin and hemoglobin
- Endoscopy findings
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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