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ICD-10 Coding for Positive Fecal Immunochemical Test(R19.5)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Positive Fecal Immunochemical Test. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Positive FITAbnormal FIT result

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Positive Fecal Immunochemical Test

R19-R19.9Primary Range

Other symptoms and signs involving the digestive system and abdomen

This range includes codes for abnormal findings in fecal tests, including positive FIT results.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for positive FIT test

Essential facts and insights about Positive Fecal Immunochemical Test

The ICD-10 code for a positive fecal immunochemical test (FIT) is R19.5, used for other fecal abnormalities.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for positive fit test

Other fecal abnormalities
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Positive result from a fecal immunochemical test

documentation Criteria

  • FIT result documented in the patient's problem list

Applicable To

  • Positive fecal immunochemical test
  • Abnormal stool-based DNA test

Excludes

  • Melena (K92.1)
  • Hematochezia (R19.5 with visible blood)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Documented positive FIT result
  • Follow-up actions such as referral for colonoscopy

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly using a screening code instead of R19.5
  • Failing to document the FIT result in the problem list

Coding Notes

  • R19.5 should be used as the primary diagnosis for follow-up colonoscopy after a positive FIT.

Ancillary Codes

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

Encounter for screening for malignant neoplasm of colon

Z12.11
Use for initial screening FIT when the result is negative.

Differential Codes

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

Melena

K92.1
Use K92.1 if there is overt bleeding present along with a positive FIT.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Positive Fecal Immunochemical Test to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R19.5.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to missed follow-up and delayed diagnosis., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims due to incomplete documentation.

Mitigation Strategy

Implement checklist for documenting test results, Regular audits of patient records for completeness

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims or audits., Compliance: Using the wrong code can result in non-compliance with coding standards., Data Quality: Misclassification affects data accuracy and quality measures.

Mitigation Strategy

Always use R19.5 for positive FIT results to ensure proper follow-up and billing.

Impact

Using screening codes instead of R19.5 for positive results.

Mitigation Strategy

Educate staff on proper coding practices and conduct regular audits.

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 Positive Fecal Immunochemical Test, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Positive Fecal Immunochemical Test

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Positive Fecal Immunochemical Test. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Positive FIT result follow-up

Specialty: Gastroenterology

Required Elements

  • FIT result and date
  • ICD-10 code R19.5 assignment
  • Colonoscopy referral
  • Patient communication

Example Documentation

Abnormal FIT result (R19.5) discussed with patient. Referral to GI for colonoscopy placed on [date].

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
FIT positive, colonoscopy ordered
Good Documentation Example
Quantitative FIT result 35 μg Hb/g stool (normal <20) documented as R19.5. Patient notified 03/28/2025, open-access colonoscopy referral #12345 placed with GI Associates. Discussed risks of delay in follow-up.
Explanation
The good example provides specific test results, documentation of the ICD-10 code, and details of patient communication and follow-up actions.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Positive Fecal Immunochemical Test? Ask your questions below.

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