Diabetes “Buddy”
codes
The ICD-9-CM code for diabetes is assigned to category 250
Diabetes Mellitus. The fourth digit is used
to indicate the presence of a manifestations or complications identified due to
diabetes. Consider the following in the documentation before assigning a code:
1. Type of diabetes
the patient has.
2. Is the diabetes is
controlled or uncontrolled?
3. Are there
manifestations or complications? If so, what are they?
Coding guidelines require two ICD-9 codes be used when coding
diabetes and its manifestation. If the
physician just lists 250.40, then it is an incomplete diagnosis. They would
need the second “buddy” code to completely document the patient’s condition. The linking words of “due to” in the medical
record are important as well.
The following codes are used to indicate diabetes with
manifestations. The fifth digit
determines the type of diabetes and whether it is uncontrolled or not stated as
uncontrolled.
250.4X Diabetes with renal manifestations
250.5X Diabetes with ophthalmic
manifestations
250.6X Diabetes with neurological
manifestations
250.7X Diabetes with peripheral
circulatory disorders
250.8X Diabetes with other
specified manifestations
250.40 Diabetes with renal manifestations
AND
585.2 Chronic kidney disease, Stage II (mild)
#HCC #RiskAdjustment
Disclaimer:
This guidance is to be used for an easy reference; the ICD-9-CM and ICD-10-CM
code books and the Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting are the
authoritative references for accurate and complete coding. This blog may contain references or links
to statutes, regulations, or other policy materials. It is not intended to take
the place of either the written law or regulations. The information presented herein is for
general informational purposes only.
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