ICD-10 Coding for Lethargy(R53.83)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Lethargy. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Lethargy
R53Primary Range
Malaise and fatigue
This range includes codes for various types of fatigue and malaise, including lethargy.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for lethargy
Essential facts and insights about Lethargy
Primary ICD-10-CM Code for lethargy
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Persistent fatigue with no improvement from rest.
coding Criteria
- No specific underlying condition identified.
documentation Criteria
- Documented impact on daily activities.
Applicable To
- Lethargy
- Tiredness
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Persistent fatigue impacting daily activities
- No improvement with rest
- Exclusion of other specific conditions
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrectly coding as primary when an underlying cause is known.
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies if lethargy is a symptom of another condition.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Anemia in neoplastic disease
D63.0Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Lethargy to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R53.83.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to misdiagnosis., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential billing denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Include specific details about fatigue., Link to any known underlying conditions.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to incorrect DRG assignment and reimbursement issues., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Code the underlying condition first, then R53.83.
Impact
Using R53.83 as primary when an underlying cause is documented.
Mitigation Strategy
Review documentation for underlying conditions before coding.
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 Lethargy, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Lethargy
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Lethargy. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Lethargy with unknown cause
Specialty: Internal MedicineRequired Elements
- Patient history
- Physical examination
- Lab results
- Impact on daily activities
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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