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ICD-10 Coding for Lack of Coordination(R27.8, R27.9)

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

Also known as:

AtaxiaCoordination Deficit

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Lack of Coordination

R27Primary Range

Other and unspecified lack of coordination

This range includes codes for various types of coordination deficits, including unspecified and specific types like ataxia.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
R27.8Other lack of coordinationUse when specific coordination deficits are documented but not classified elsewhere.
  • Abnormal tandem gait
  • Dysmetria on finger-nose testing
  • Impaired rapid alternating movements
R27.9Unspecified lack of coordinationUse when documentation lacks specificity on the type of coordination deficit.
  • Lack of specific findings in neurological exam

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 lack of coordination

Essential facts and insights about Lack of Coordination

The ICD-10 code for lack of coordination is R27.9 for unspecified cases, and R27.8 for other specified coordination deficits.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for lack of coordination

Other lack of coordination
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of specific coordination tests indicating deficit.

Applicable To

  • Coordination deficit not elsewhere classified

Excludes

  • Hereditary ataxia (G11.-)
  • Vertigo (R42)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Abnormal tandem gait
  • Dysmetria on finger-nose testing
  • Impaired rapid alternating movements

Code-Specific Risks

  • Risk of under-documentation if specific tests are not noted.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies the type of coordination deficit.

Ancillary Codes

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

Multiple sclerosis

G35
Use when coordination deficit is due to multiple sclerosis.

Differential Codes

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

Ataxia, unspecified

R27.0
Use when ataxia is documented without further specification.

Other lack of coordination

R27.8
Use R27.8 if specific coordination deficits are documented.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Lack of Coordination to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R27.8.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment plans., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims due to lack of specificity.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure thorough documentation of neurological tests., Query provider for specifics if not documented.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to lower reimbursement due to lack of specificity., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines for specificity., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Use R27.8 if specific coordination deficits are documented.

Impact

Risk of audits due to use of unspecified codes when specific details are available.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation includes specific neurological findings.

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 Lack of Coordination, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Lack of Coordination

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

Neurological assessment for coordination issues

Specialty: Neurology

Required Elements

  • Coordination test results
  • Neurological exam findings
  • Imaging results

Example Documentation

Patient exhibits impaired bilateral upper extremity coordination with dysmetria on finger-to-nose testing.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient has poor coordination.
Good Documentation Example
Impaired bilateral upper extremity coordination with dysmetria on finger-to-nose testing, not explained by recent TBI or cerebellar lesions (MRI negative).
Explanation
The good example provides specific test results and rules out other causes, supporting accurate coding.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Lack of Coordination? Ask your questions below.

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