ICD-10 Coding for Right Otitis Externa(H60.331, H60.511, H60.91)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Right Otitis Externa. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Right Otitis Externa
H60-H62Primary Range
Diseases of external ear
This range includes all conditions related to infections and disorders of the external ear, including otitis externa.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| H60.331 | Swimmer’s ear, right ear | Use when documentation specifies 'swimmer’s ear' with symptoms of infection. |
|
| H60.511 | Acute actinic otitis externa, right ear | Use when documentation specifies sun-induced inflammation without infection. |
|
| H60.91 | Unspecified otitis externa, right ear | Use when documentation lacks specificity on type and etiology. |
|
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 otitis externa
Essential facts and insights about Right Otitis Externa
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for right otitis externa
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of water exposure and purulent drainage
Applicable To
- Acute infective otitis externa
Excludes
- Non-infective otitis externa
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Water exposure
- Purulent drainage
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification if non-infective etiology is present
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies 'swimmer’s ear' and laterality.
H60.511 - Acute actinic otitis externa, right ear
Use when documentation specifies sun-induced inflammation without infection.
Applicable To
- Sun-induced inflammation
Excludes
- Infective otitis externa
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Sun/radiation exposure
- Erythema without pus
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation specifies sun exposure and absence of infection.
H60.91 - Unspecified otitis externa, right ear
Use when documentation lacks specificity on type and etiology.
Applicable To
- Right ear pain/redness without further specification
Excludes
- Specific types of otitis externa
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Right ear pain/redness
Coding Notes
Use only when no specific type is documented.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection
B96.2Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Right Otitis Externa to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code H60.331.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment, Regulatory: Increases risk of audit, Financial: Potential for claim denials
Mitigation Strategy
Use specific clinical terms, Document detailed symptoms and findings
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to denials or lower reimbursement, Compliance: Increases audit risk, Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of clinical data
Mitigation Strategy
Query provider for specific type and laterality
Impact
High audit risk when using unspecified codes in cases where specificity is possible.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement EHR alerts to prompt for specific type and laterality.
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 Otitis Externa, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Right Otitis Externa
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Right Otitis Externa. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Acute infective otitis externa
Specialty: ENTRequired Elements
- History of present illness
- Physical exam findings
- Assessment and plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Right Otitis Externa? Ask your questions below.