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ICD-10 Coding for Urinary Frequency(R35.0, R35.1)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Urinary Frequency. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Frequent UrinationIncreased Urination

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Urinary Frequency

R30-R39Primary Range

Symptoms and signs involving the urinary system

This range includes codes for urinary frequency and related symptoms.

Other disorders of urinary system

Includes codes for urinary incontinence and overactive bladder, which may be associated with urinary frequency.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
R35.0Frequency of micturitionUse when the patient reports frequent urination without a specific underlying condition identified.
  • Bladder diary showing >8 voids/day
  • Patient history indicating increased frequency
R35.1NocturiaUse when nocturia is the primary symptom reported by the patient.
  • Patient reports waking up at night to urinate more than twice.

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 urinary frequency

Essential facts and insights about Urinary Frequency

The ICD-10 code for urinary frequency is R35.0, used for frequent urination without a specific underlying condition.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for urinary frequency

Frequency of micturition
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Patient reports urinating more than 8 times a day.

documentation Criteria

  • Bladder diary or patient history confirms increased frequency.

Applicable To

  • Frequent urination

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Bladder diary showing >8 voids/day
  • Patient history indicating increased frequency

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification if nocturia is present

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies the frequency and context of urination.

Ancillary Codes

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

Benign prostatic hyperplasia with lower urinary tract symptoms

N40.1
Use when urinary frequency is associated with BPH.

Overactive bladder

N32.81
Use when nocturia is associated with overactive bladder symptoms.

Differential Codes

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

Nocturia

R35.1
Use R35.1 if the patient reports waking up at night to urinate.

Frequency of micturition

R35.0
Use R35.0 if the frequency occurs during the day.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Urinary Frequency to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R35.0.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to misdiagnosis or inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Could result in coding errors and compliance issues., Financial: Potential for claim denials or reduced reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Always ask about nighttime urination during patient interviews., Document the number of nighttime voids explicitly.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to claim denials., Compliance: Misclassification may result in compliance issues., Data Quality: Affects the accuracy of patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation specifies whether urination occurs primarily during the day or night.

Impact

Using R35.0 when nocturia is present.

Mitigation Strategy

Implement thorough documentation practices to capture specific urination patterns.

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 Urinary Frequency, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Urinary Frequency

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Urinary Frequency. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

General Practice Evaluation of Urinary Frequency

Specialty: General Practice

Required Elements

  • Chief Complaint
  • History of Present Illness
  • Review of Systems
  • Physical Examination
  • Assessment and Plan

Example Documentation

Chief Complaint: 'I urinate frequently during the day.' HPI: Patient reports urinating 12 times a day for the past 3 months. No nocturia reported. ROS: Negative for dysuria or hematuria.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient urinates often.
Good Documentation Example
Patient reports urinating 12 times a day, with no nocturia.
Explanation
The good example provides specific frequency and context, improving clarity and coding accuracy.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Urinary Frequency? Ask your questions below.

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