ICD-10 Coding for Stool Culture(A03.1, R19.5)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Stool Culture. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Stool Culture
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| A03.1 | Shigella flexneri | Use when Shigella flexneri is confirmed via stool culture. |
|
| R19.5 | Other fecal abnormalities | Use when stool abnormalities are present but no specific pathogen is identified. |
|
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 Shigella flexneri
Essential facts and insights about Stool Culture
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for stool culture
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Confirmed Shigella flexneri via stool culture
Applicable To
- Shigella flexneri infection
Excludes
- Other specified Shigella infections
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Positive stool culture for Shigella flexneri
- Symptoms of bloody diarrhea
Code-Specific Risks
- Ensure species is specified to avoid unspecified coding.
Coding Notes
- Always specify the species when known to avoid audits.
R19.5 - Other fecal abnormalities
Use when stool abnormalities are present but no specific pathogen is identified.
Applicable To
- Abnormal stool findings
Excludes
- Specific pathogen identified
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documentation of abnormal stool characteristics without pathogen identification
Coding Notes
Use in conjunction with symptoms when no pathogen is identified.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Other fecal abnormalities
R19.5Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Stool Culture to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code A03.1.
Impact
Clinical: May affect the validity of the test results., Regulatory: Can lead to compliance issues during audits., Financial: Potential denial of claims due to incomplete documentation.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document the type of transport media used., Include this information in the patient's medical record.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to reduced reimbursement due to lack of specificity., Compliance: Increases risk of audit and non-compliance., Data Quality: Decreases the accuracy of health data records.
Mitigation Strategy
Always specify the pathogen species when known.
Impact
Using unspecified codes when specific pathogens are identified.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure lab results are reviewed and specific pathogens are documented.
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 Stool Culture, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Stool Culture
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Stool Culture. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Positive stool culture for Shigella
Specialty: GastroenterologyRequired Elements
- Patient symptoms
- Collection method
- Transport media used
- Test results
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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