ICD-10 Coding for Parkinsonism(G20, G21.11)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Parkinsonism. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Parkinsonism
G20-G21Primary Range
Parkinsonism and related disorders
This range includes primary Parkinson's disease and secondary parkinsonism, covering idiopathic, drug-induced, and other causes.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| G20 | Parkinson's disease | Use for idiopathic Parkinson's disease confirmed by clinical evaluation and response to treatment. |
|
| G21.11 | Drug-induced secondary parkinsonism | Use for parkinsonism caused by neuroleptic drugs, confirmed by clinical history. |
|
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 Parkinson's disease
Essential facts and insights about Parkinsonism
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for parkinsonism
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Idiopathic onset with response to levodopa
Applicable To
- Idiopathic Parkinson's disease
- Hemiparkinsonism
- Paralysis agitans
Excludes
- Secondary parkinsonism (G21.-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Response to levodopa (>30% UPDRS improvement)
- Absence of red flags (e.g., cerebellar signs)
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification if secondary causes are not ruled out
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies idiopathic nature and response to treatment.
G21.11 - Drug-induced secondary parkinsonism
Use for parkinsonism caused by neuroleptic drugs, confirmed by clinical history.
Applicable To
- Parkinsonism due to neuroleptic drugs
Excludes
- Idiopathic Parkinson's disease (G20)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Temporal relationship to neuroleptic use
- Negative DaTscan
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation links symptoms to drug use.
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 Parkinsonism to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code G20.
Impact
Clinical: Misdiagnosis risk, Regulatory: Coding audits, Financial: Denied claims
Mitigation Strategy
Use comprehensive assessment tools., Regularly update patient records.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment, Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines, Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation
Mitigation Strategy
Use G21 codes for secondary causes with appropriate T codes.
Impact
Reimbursement: Potential underpayment, Compliance: Incomplete coding, Data Quality: Inaccurate depiction of patient condition
Mitigation Strategy
Add F02.81 for dementia with behavioral disturbance.
Impact
Failure to differentiate can lead to incorrect coding.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure thorough clinical evaluation and documentation.
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 Parkinsonism, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Parkinsonism
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Parkinsonism. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Idiopathic Parkinson's Disease
Specialty: NeurologyRequired Elements
- Motor symptoms
- Response to levodopa
- Non-motor symptoms
- Cognitive assessment
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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