ICD-10 Coding for Pain in Left Hand(M79.642)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Pain in Left Hand. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Pain in Left Hand
M79.64-M79.649Primary Range
Other specified soft tissue disorders, not elsewhere classified
This range includes specific codes for pain in different parts of the body, including the left hand.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for pain in left hand
Essential facts and insights about Pain in Left Hand
Primary ICD-10-CM Code for pain left hand
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Pain localized to the left hand with no other specific diagnosis.
documentation Criteria
- Documentation must include laterality and specific location of pain.
Applicable To
- Pain localized to the left hand
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Tenderness on palpation of left hand
- Reduced grip strength
- Negative X-ray for fracture
Code-Specific Risks
- Using this code without specifying laterality can lead to audits.
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies laterality and any associated symptoms or findings.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Pain in Left Hand to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M79.642.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Increases risk of audits., Financial: Potential for denied claims.
Mitigation Strategy
Use templates that prompt for specific location and laterality.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to denied claims or reduced reimbursement., Compliance: Increases risk of audits., Data Quality: Reduces accuracy of clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Always specify laterality to avoid using unspecified codes.
Impact
Coding without specifying laterality can trigger audits.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document and code the specific side affected.
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 Pain in Left Hand, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Pain in Left Hand
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Pain in Left Hand. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Primary Care Visit for Hand Pain
Specialty: Primary CareRequired Elements
- Subjective description of pain
- Objective findings including range of motion
- Assessment and plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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