ICD-10 Coding for Right Arm Pain(M79.601, M79.621, M79.631)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Right Arm Pain. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Right Arm Pain
M79.601-M79.631Primary Range
Pain in limb, unspecified
This range includes codes for pain in the right arm, specifying different regions such as upper arm and forearm.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| M79.601 | Pain in right arm, unspecified | Use when the pain is not localized to a specific part of the arm. |
|
| M79.621 | Pain in right upper arm | Use when pain is specifically in the upper arm region. |
|
| M79.631 | Pain in right forearm | Use when pain is specifically in the forearm region. |
|
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 right arm pain
Essential facts and insights about Right Arm Pain
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for right arm pain
Decision Criteria
documentation Criteria
- Document the specific location of the pain in the arm.
Applicable To
- Generalized right arm pain
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Patient reports pain in the right arm without specific localization.
Code-Specific Risks
- Risk of under-documentation if specific location is not noted.
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies the location of the pain if possible.
M79.621 - Pain in right upper arm
Use when pain is specifically in the upper arm region.
Applicable To
- Localized pain in the right upper arm
Excludes
- Pain in right forearm (M79.631)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Pain localized between shoulder and elbow.
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation specifies the location of the pain if possible.
M79.631 - Pain in right forearm
Use when pain is specifically in the forearm region.
Applicable To
- Localized pain in the right forearm
Excludes
- Pain in right upper arm (M79.621)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Pain localized between elbow and wrist.
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation specifies the location of the pain if possible.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Acute pain due to trauma
G89.11Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Right Arm Pain to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M79.601.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims.
Mitigation Strategy
Use templates to ensure all required information is captured., Train staff on importance of detailed documentation.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to lower reimbursement due to lack of specificity., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Use M79.621 or M79.631 based on location.
Impact
Risk of audits due to use of unspecified codes when specific codes are available.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation supports the use of specific codes.
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 Right Arm Pain, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Right Arm Pain
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Right Arm Pain. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Patient presents with right arm pain
Specialty: OrthopedicsRequired Elements
- Location of pain
- Quality of pain
- Provocation and alleviation factors
- Associated symptoms
- Physical examination findings
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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