ICD-10 Coding for Low Thyroid(E03.9, E03.2, E89.0)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Low Thyroid. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Low Thyroid
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| E03.9 | Hypothyroidism, unspecified | Use when the specific cause of hypothyroidism is unknown or not documented. |
|
| E03.2 | Hypothyroidism due to drugs and other exogenous substances | Use when hypothyroidism is caused by medication or external substances. |
|
| E89.0 | Postprocedural hypothyroidism | Use when hypothyroidism is a result of surgical or radiation procedures. |
|
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 low thyroid
Essential facts and insights about Low Thyroid
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for low thyroid
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- TSH levels elevated with no specific cause identified
Applicable To
- Low thyroid function
Excludes
- Postprocedural hypothyroidism (E89.0)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- TSH >4.5 mIU/L
- Symptoms of hypothyroidism
Code-Specific Risks
- Overuse without proper documentation of unknown etiology
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation supports the lack of specific etiology before using this code.
E03.2 - Hypothyroidism due to drugs and other exogenous substances
Use when hypothyroidism is caused by medication or external substances.
Applicable To
- Drug-induced hypothyroidism
Excludes
- Congenital hypothyroidism (E03.1)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documented use of medication known to affect thyroid function
- TSH >4.5 mIU/L
Coding Notes
Ensure the medication or substance is documented as the cause.
E89.0 - Postprocedural hypothyroidism
Use when hypothyroidism is a result of surgical or radiation procedures.
Applicable To
- Hypothyroidism following thyroid surgery
Excludes
- Congenital hypothyroidism (E03.1)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- History of thyroidectomy or radiation therapy
- TSH >4.5 mIU/L
Coding Notes
Document the specific procedure leading to hypothyroidism.
Differential 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 Low Thyroid to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code E03.9.
Impact
Clinical: Inaccurate treatment planning, Regulatory: Potential for audit issues, Financial: Incorrect reimbursement
Mitigation Strategy
Use specific language in documentation, Include lab results and etiology
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to incorrect DRG assignment, Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines, Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation
Mitigation Strategy
Use E89.0 for postprocedural hypothyroidism
Impact
Frequent use of E03.9 without documented etiology
Mitigation Strategy
Encourage detailed documentation of hypothyroidism causes
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 Low Thyroid, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Low Thyroid
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Low Thyroid. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Endocrinology Progress Note
Specialty: EndocrinologyRequired Elements
- TSH and T4 levels
- Etiology of hypothyroidism
- Treatment plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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