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HCC Training Manual

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Page 1: HCC CODING training manual

HCC Training Manual

Page 2: HCC CODING training manual

Index• Introduction• Benefit to the MA Organization and Physician • Medicare Advantage Part A, B, C & D• Introduction to Medicare Advantage Part C• Introduction to Medicare Advantage Part D• Risk Adjustment• Hierarchical Condition Category• Revised 2014 Risk Adjustment Payment Model• Example of HCC and ICD-9 Code Mapping• Risk Score• Coding Exclusions• Acceptable Physician Specialty Types• General Guidelines• General Medical Record Documentation Considerations• Valid Provider Signature

Page 3: HCC CODING training manual

Index• Date of Service• Record Types• Format of Records• M.E.A.T• Medications as MEAT• Coding Guidelines per Section of E&M Documentation• Miscellaneous Coding Guidelines• Condition specific coding guidelines• Critical conditions coding guidelines• CMS Documentation Signature Requirement• Valid Documents• Invalid Documents• Documentation Tips

Clinical Specificity in Documentation • Documentation Considerations• Medical Record Issues

Page 4: HCC CODING training manual

INTRODUCTION

• In 2004 Medicare implemented an HCC (Hierarchical Condition Categories) model to adjust capitation payments to private health care plans for the health expenditure risk of their enrollees.

• The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) Risk Adjustment Model measures the disease burden that includes 70 HCC categories, which are correlated to diagnosis codes.

• Medicare Advantage Plans have to submit the "one best medical record" that supports each beneficiary HCC identified for validation.

• The MA plan can choose to submit – hospital inpatient, – hospital outpatient, – Or physician medical record when more than one option is available.

Page 5: HCC CODING training manual

INTRODUCTION• Medicare uses ICD-9-CM as the official diagnosis code set for all lines of business

including determination of risk adjustment factors. • MA organizations must:

– Implement procedures to ensure that diagnoses are coming from physician, hospital inpatient, or hospital outpatient provider types.

– Submit all relevant ICD-9-CM diagnosis codes for each beneficiary. – Submit unique diagnoses at least once during the risk adjustment data

reporting period.

• The source medical record documentation that supports each coded diagnosis must be obtainable and demonstrate adherence to official coding guidelines.

• Relevant diagnoses are defined as those diagnoses collected from one of the three provider types that are used in the Risk Adjustment models (i.e., CMS-HCC, ESRD and RxHCC models).

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Benefit to the MA Organization and Physician

A basic understanding of ICD-9-CM process and guidelines assists MA organizations in:• Interpreting and designing management reports. • Determining possible causes of ICD-9-CM errors.• Communicating diagnosis-related collection issues to the provider staff. Developing and

maintaining information systems that meet the clinical data collection needs of the organization.

• Understanding clinical issues important to beneficiaries.• Planning for future MA organization services. Medical record documentation and coding impact several issues important to the physician and

MA organization including: • Accurate reimbursement.

- ICD-9-CM codes are the basis of the Risk Adjustment models.- Accurate diagnosis codes are a result of clear, consistent, and complete documentation.- CMS may verify the accuracy of the diagnoses submitted relative to the medical record documentation.

• Communication among all members of the health care team.• Evaluation of the care provided.• Research and education.• Practice patterns.

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Medicare Advantage Part A, B, C & DMedicare is a federal health insurance program & consists of 4 parts:Part A • IP hospital, IP SNF care, IP care in religious non-medical health care facility, home

health, hospice Part B • Doctor services, office visits, screenings, therapies, preventive services, OP

hospital, emergency care, ambulance, medical/surgical supplies and durable medical equipment

Part C (Medicare Advantage) • Part A & B services • Additional services Part D • Pharmacy benefits • Includes plans with varying out-of-pocket requirements

Page 8: HCC CODING training manual

Medicare Advantage Part A, B, C & DMedicare is a federal health insurance program & consists of 4 parts:Part A • IP hospital, IP SNF care, IP care in religious non-medical health care facility, home

health, hospice Part B • Doctor services, office visits, screenings, therapies, preventive services, OP

hospital, emergency care, ambulance, medical/surgical supplies and durable medical equipment

Part C (Medicare Advantage) • Part A & B services • Additional services Part D • Pharmacy benefits • Includes plans with varying out-of-pocket requirements

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Introduction to Medicare Advantage Part C

Part C (Medicare Advantage) Includes Part A and Part B services, includes coverage for extra dental, vision,

hearing and preventive services and some optional supplement services (e.g. gym memberships and exercise classes)

Medicare Advantage plan receives payment for each member from CMS

Payment is based on member predicted health status and demographic characteristics

Medicare Advantage plan regulated by CMS

Page 10: HCC CODING training manual

Introduction to Medicare Advantage Part D

Part D (Prescription Drug Plans) • Pharmacy benefits • Offered by Part D plans (PDPs) and MA health plans that offer Part D prescription

drug benefits (MAPDs) • Includes plans with varying out-of-pocket requirements • CMS regulated

Page 11: HCC CODING training manual

Risk Adjustment• Medicare risk adjustment is the term for how Medicare pays Medicare Advantage

(MA) Plans. MA plans are paid based on the member’s diagnoses codes that map to a Hierarchical Condition Category (HCC). These HCC-related diagnoses codes are reported by the MA Plan to CMS.

Page 12: HCC CODING training manual

Hierarchical Condition CategoryCategory of medical conditions that map to a corresponding group of ICD-9 diagnosis

codes. 3,100 ICD-9 codes map to 1 of 70 HCCs There is a specific ICD-9-CM code for each illness. Only a small number of diagnosis

codes are part of the HCC Payment Model. Eligible diagnosis codes must be reported to CMS at least once during each calendar year for Risk Adjusted payment.

Rx HCC- Some HCC codes adjust risk due to prescription burden of disease Disease Groups/HCCs ICD-9 codes are grouped together based on diagnosis that are clinically related and

have similar projected costs.

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Revised 2014 Risk Adjustment Payment Model

• Increased number of HCCs from 70 to 79 • Addition of BMI as an HCC • Removed HCCs for CKD stages 1-3, neuropathy, old MI, etc. • Significant changes to the HCCs for Diabetes

- Acute complications (250.1x – 250.3x) map to HCC 17 - Chronic complications (250.4x – 250.9x) map to HCC 18

Page 14: HCC CODING training manual

Example of HCC and ICD-9 Code Mapping

ICD9 ICD-9-CM Description 2013 Payment HCC 2014 Payment HCC 2013 Payment

RxHCC 2014 Payment RxHCC

042 Human immuno virus dis 1 1 1 1

20400 Ac lym leuk wo achv rmn 7 8 11 11

25000 DMII wo cmp nt st uncntr 19 19 15 15

25060 DMII neuro nt st uncntrl 16 18 14 14

2724 Hyperlipidemia NEC/NOS 23 23

27801 Morbid obesity 22 21 21

5851 Chro kidney dis stage I 131 125 125

4540 Leg varicosity w ulcer 107

2875 Thrombocytopenia NOS 48

V8541 BMI 40.0-44.9, adult 22 21 21

412 Old MI 83 89 89

Page 15: HCC CODING training manual

Risk Score• A Risk Score is created in order to determine how an average member in the

population compares to another member in the population.

• The formula reads: – Risk Score = (demographics) + (disease) + (disease) + (disease).

• Each disease has an HCC risk factor score by CMS. HCC's lump 3,100 diagnoses from the ICD-9-CM system into about 70 diagnostic groups. In addition, each member is assigned a demographic risk factor by CMS based upon their demographics (e.g., age, gender, Medicaid status, original Medicare entitlement and disability status).

• Total payment to the MA Plan starts with the base payment which is calculated by the MA Plan and submitted to CMS for approval as part of the Plan’s annual bid process.

• The total payment calculation is: – Total Payment = Base Payment x Risk Score

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Coding ExclusionsDocumentation acceptable for risk adjustment should be from a face-to-face visit. Do

not code the following:

Exclusions – Do Not Code

Lab Phone calls / case manager visit

Dialysis

Radiology Physician orders Prosthetics/orthotics

Ambulance Charge slips/Superbills Ambulatory surgery center

DME/Supplies Rx scripts Letters not for a face-to-face visit

Diagnostic/Electro-diagnostic Reports

Nursing notes/Nurse Only Visits

Consultation requests

Chemotherapy only Infusion Therapy Visits between provider and family

Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Nurse visit

Hospital progress noteICU visit

Page 17: HCC CODING training manual

Acceptable Physician Specialty TypesCode Specialty Code Specialty Code Specialty

1 General practice 25 Physical Medicine and rehabilitation 67 Occupational Therapist

2 General Surgery 26 Psychiatry 68 Clinical Psychologist

3 Allergy/Immunology 27 Geriatric Psychiatry 72 Pain Management

4 Otolaryngology 28 Colorectal Surgery 76 Peripheral vascular disease

5 Anaesthesiology 29 Pulmonary Disease 77 Vascular Surgery

6 Cardiology 33 Thoracic Surgery 78 Cardiac surgery

7 Dermatology 34 Urology 79 Addiction Medicine

8 Family Practice 35 Chiropractic 80 Licensed Clinical Social Worker

9 Interventional Pain Management 36 Nuclear Medicine 81 Critical Care (intensivists)

10 Gastroenterology 37 Pediatric Medicine 82 Hematology

11 Internal Medicine 38 Geriatric Medicine 83 Hematology/Oncology

12 Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine 39 Nephrology 84 Preventive Medicine

13 Neurology 40 Hand Surgery 85 Maxillofacial Surgery

14 Neurosurgery 41 Optometry 86 Neuropsychiatry

15 Speech Language Pathologist 42 Certified Nurse Midwife 89 Certified Clinical Nurse Specialist

16 Obstetrics/Gynaecology 43 Certified Registered Nurse Anaesthetist 90 Medical Oncology

17 Hospice and Palliative Care 44 Infectious Disease 91 Surgical Oncology

Page 18: HCC CODING training manual

General GuidelinesCapture of Diagnoses per Calendar Year

– Coders will review every DOS, however will only capture and report CMS HCC & RX HCC diagnoses one time within the measurement year

Capture of ‘Best DOS’

– Coders will code the’ Best DOS’ documented within the image. The ‘Best DOS ‘is identified as the DOS that lists all possible HCCs within each reporting period and adheres to all CMS signature and credential guidelines.

Code each unique Dx though it pops up same HCC (530.81, 530.85 – triggers same Rx HCC but still can be coded.)

Follow 2013_2014 HCC_RxHCC crosswalk in order to look up for chronic, acute chronic

and acute condition list.

Page 19: HCC CODING training manual

General Medical Record Documentation Considerations

1. Please make sure to carefully review each record. Please ensure that each of the following rules is met when reviewing the medical record for HCC validation.

1. Each coded DOS should be able to stand on its own for HCC validation.

1. CMS recommends that patient name and DOS appear on each page of the medical record. However, if the patient name and DOS are not on each page of the record, the record will be acceptable for coding as long as it is clear that each page of the record is for the same patient and same DOS. The coder should carefully review the entire record for context and should use best judgment.

1. Conditions coded must be stated in the medical record using text (i.e. conditions documented using only the numerical codes (296.32) are not acceptable for risk adjustment per CMS)

1. Reported conditions must be supported with medical record documentation.

1. Documentation must demonstrate MEAT (subject to exceptions noted in the Coding Manual).

Page 20: HCC CODING training manual

General Medical Record Documentation Considerations

1. Each encounter must be from an acceptable place of service: inpatient hospital, outpatient hospital or physician’s office visit.

1. Each physician record must be from an acceptable provider type (see table of acceptable providers on previous pages).

1. Each physician or outpatient hospital encounter must be from a face-to-face visit.

1. Each record must comply with CMS signature and credential requirements.

1. Characteristics for acceptable documentation include: • Clear • Concise • Consistent • Complete • Legible

Page 21: HCC CODING training manual

Date of Service• DOS must be clear and legible (month, day, and year). CMS requires valid DOS for

each encounter in the medical record for HCC validation.

• If the DOS is not clear and legible do not code the record. Do not guess or use 1/1/YYYY with the E&O for a record which does not contain a clear and legible DOS.

• Please exercise extreme caution when entering the correct year (e.g. 2013, 2014, etc).

Page 22: HCC CODING training manual

RECORD TYPEPHYSICIANS:1. Followup visit2. Return visit3. Office visit4. IP Consult, IP OP reports – If discharge summary or Discharge date not given, then code seperately and

use Record type as Physican.5. Opeative procedures done in Medical centers or Physician offices.INPATIENT:1. Discharge summary given with Admission and Discharge date.2. All operative reports, consultation ,inpatient progres notes, colonoscopy reports found within the same

day inpatient visit should be clubbed together with discharge summary and coded in a single visit.3. Discharge date found in any of the Inpatient document is acceptable for DOS4. In ED visit DOS was not given but Admit and Discharge date was found please do not consider a ED visit as

valid document. OUTPATIENT:1. Same day Admit and Discharge2. Emergency Department3. Operative procedures done in Hospital setting4. Encounter information itself given as "Type – OP"

Page 23: HCC CODING training manual

Format of RecordsConditions can be coded from any part of the record provided the condition is documented

appropriately with MEAT. Documentation is often found in many different formats but the two most common are:

SOAP format:• Subjective - HPI, Chief Complaint (patient’s own words), ROS, usually the reason for the

visit is found here • Objective – Physical exam, review of systems, vitals, weight etc. • Assessment – Final impression, symptoms, relevant concurrent problems • Plan - Refill meds, order test, refer to specialists, order lab work, treatment plan

CHEDDAR format:• Chief Compliant – Presenting problem(s) patient’s own words • History – Social, medical, surgical, family histories • Exam – Physical examination of the patient • Details of Problem – Details of the complaints or symptoms • Drugs/Dosages – Current medications and dosages • Assessment – An assessment of the diagnostic process and final impressions • Recommendations – Return to clinic, refer to specialist, treatment plan

Please keep in mind that not all records follow these formats. The main goals are to verify that each encounter is a face-to-face visit, with an acceptable provider, and that the conditions coded have MEAT to support them within the documentation.

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M.E.A.T• All diagnoses codes on physician/OP records must have MEAT to be considered

acceptable for risk adjustment. This would include inpatient consults, inpatient progress notes (coded as physician records), and ER visits on the day of admission which are reviewed under the outpatient coding guidelines.

• For physician and OP records, DO NOT CODE conditions which are not definitive such as: probable, possible, questionable, rule out, likely, or other uncertain language. Rather, code the condition(s) to the highest degree of certainty for that encounter/visit, such as symptoms, signs, abnormal test results, or other reason for the visit.

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M.E.A.TM.E.A.T can be found in any section of the physician/outpatient record. Use coding

judgment to determine acceptable sources of support within each document. • Monitored (e.g., ordered labs or diagnostic radiology) • Evaluated (e.g., review lab or x-ray results, physical examination) • Addressed/Assessed (e.g., condition described as “stable” or “improving”) • Treated (e.g., referring patient to see a specialist, prescribing or refill of meds,

surgery)

Following can be considered as MEAT:

• Diagnostic studies• Lab reports• Symptoms as meat for conditions• Medications

Page 26: HCC CODING training manual

MEATMeat Words (Diagnosis should listed in Impression, HPI, Physical examination)

• Stable Mild• Improving Asymptomatic• Worsening Compensated• Referred to Providers Severe• Diagnosis linked to medication Persistent• Controlled Permanent• Uncontrolled No signs & symptoms• Likely elevated New onset• At goal Referred for surgery• No change Unchanged• No associated orders are given Well regulated• No improvement Progression• Not changed from previous visit

Page 27: HCC CODING training manual

Medications as MEATThe medications listed in current medication list / Assessment & Plan may be used as

MEAT to code the conditions even if there is no clear documented link in the medical record.

Few Examples:

Condition Documented Current Medication List

Diabetes Insulin, glucophage, glyburide, Actos, glipizide, Januvia, Byetta, metformin

Atrial Fibrillation Coumadin, warafin, digoxin

CHF- congestive heart failure Lasix, furosemide, digoxin

COPD – chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Albuterol, Flovent, Spiriva, Ipratropium, Atrovent, Advair

Page 28: HCC CODING training manual

Coding Guidelines per Section of E&M Documentation

History of Present Illness(HPI)

– Conditions in the HPI will be captured and reported if the diagnosis is documented as being present at the time of the visit.

Problem Lists (Separate from PMH lists, these can include, but are not limited to,

Active Problems, Chronic Problems, Current Problems, Problems, Ongoing Problems)

– Code only if there is evidence of MEAT for a chronic diagnosis, acute/chronic diagnosis from the Problem List.

– The following diagnoses are always coded, regardless of the evidence of MEAT criteria in the DOS:

• Old Myocardial Infarction• Amputations• Transplant Status• HIV/AIDS

Page 29: HCC CODING training manual

Coding Guidelines per Section of E&M Documentation

PMH (Past Medical History) Lists or diagnoses noted as a “history of”

• Code the chronic conditions directly from the PMH List without looking for MEAT. For acute/chronic diagnosis conditions look for MEAT. The following diagnoses are always coded and released, regardless of the evidence of MEAT criteria in the DOS:

• Old Myocardial Infarction• Amputations• Transplant Status• HIV/AIDS

ROS (Review of Systems)

• These conditions will be captured and reported directly. The provider is noting issues or conditions as part of the visit, therefore assessing the systems of the body.

Page 30: HCC CODING training manual

Coding Guidelines per Section of E&M Documentation

Physical Exam

– These conditions will be captured and reported. Assessment/Plan

– Chronic conditions, acute conditions & acute/chronic conditions will be captured directly without MEAT and reported.

– Diagnoses in the assessment section should be coded unless they are one of

the “special” coded conditions: Cancers, MI, CVAs, fractures etc

Page 31: HCC CODING training manual

Miscellaneous Coding GuidelinesPhysical Therapy/ Rehab Therapy/ Occupational Therapy: • Please code the first DOS, then read carefully through the remaining DOSs for

continuous therapy and add an additional DOS only when a new ICD is found. There is no need to code all DOSs of a specific period of therapy if all of them have the same dx.

Page 32: HCC CODING training manual

Miscellaneous Coding GuidelinesRegarding Scribe Utilization: • CMS offered the following guidance to contractors when reviewing E&M services

when documented by scribes in the medical record.

• If ancillary staff is present while the provider is gathering further information related to the patient’s visit, he or she may document (scribe) what is dictated and performed by the physician or NPP.

• The provider needs to review the information as it is written, documented, recorded, or scribed. The provider also needs to write a notation that they reviewed the documentation for accuracy (add to it if supplemental information is needed) and sign his/her name.

• The name of the scribe must be identified in the medical records. Note that although not required, the date of the signature should be noted.

• Ancillary staff does not need to be employed by the physician (example: hospital employee) in order to fill the scribe role.

Page 33: HCC CODING training manual

Miscellaneous Coding GuidelinesAbbreviations: • Ensure that abbreviations are used in proper context. The coder should able to

read the entire record to determine the context. • If you cannot determine the meaning of the abbreviation, or if it’s not legible, do

not code it.

• Examples of abbreviations that have multiple meanings:

– MI: mitral insufficiency; mental illness; myocardial infarction – PDR: physicians’ desk reference; proliferative diabetic retinopathy, patient’s dining room – PMI: past medical illness; point of maximal impulse; posterior myocardial infarction – PMR: polymyalgia rheumatica; pacemaker rhythm; prior medical record – PVD: peripheral vascular disease, posterior vitreous detachment

Page 34: HCC CODING training manual

Miscellaneous Coding GuidelinesCoding Strategy: Code all documented conditions that co-exist at the time of the encounter that

require • Patient care• Treatment• Management

Do not code conditions that were previously treated and no longer exist

Page 35: HCC CODING training manual

Miscellaneous Coding GuidelinesCombinations in Coding: A combination code is a single code used to classify

– Two diagnoses– A diagnosis with an associated secondary process– A diagnosis with an associated complication

Identified by referring to sub-term entries in the Alphabetic Index and by reading the

inclusion and exclusion notes in the Tabular List Assign only the combination code when that code fully identifies the diagnostic

condition involved. Secondary codes may be necessary

Page 36: HCC CODING training manual

Miscellaneous Coding GuidelinesSigns & Symptoms: • Acceptable to code when a definitive diagnosis has not been established (usually

do not risk adjust)• Not acceptable when they are integral to the disease process • Associated signs and symptoms that are not integral to a disease process should

be coded • Most found in 780.0-799.9

Legibility: These elements must be clear:

–Date of Service mm/dd/yyyy –Patient’s name –Diagnosis with supporting MEAT

Do not guess, if unsure:

–Have supervisor review –If completely illegible do not code

Page 37: HCC CODING training manual

Miscellaneous Coding GuidelinesDate of Service:

For each individual Date of Service ensure that the following are met, 1. Does the member name and DOB on the tool match the patient name and DOB on

the medical record? 2. Is the record for the Date of Service legible? (Name, DOS, dx, and MEAT) 3. Is the record from a face-to-face visit? 4. Is the record from an acceptable provider type? 5. Is the record for the Date of Service signed with provider signature and

credentials? 6. Has the Date of Service been entered correctly on the tool? 7. Are the page numbers noted correctly on the tool for the DOS? Code all valid

diagnoses in the medical record. Ensure that all HCC’s are supported with MEAT.

Page 38: HCC CODING training manual

Miscellaneous Coding GuidelinesChronic Conditions:

The following Conditions must follow supportive document to code as current conditions

– Cancer– Fracture– AAA– CVA– Acute MI– DVT– P.E– Sepsis– Malignant Hypertension– S.S.S– Complication codes

Page 39: HCC CODING training manual

Miscellaneous Coding GuidelinesCMS chronic conditions

The following conditions can be coded anywhere from the record without looking for MEAT.– DM– COPD– CHF– A-fib– Multiple Sclerosis– Hemiplegia– RA– Parkinsonism

Page 40: HCC CODING training manual

Miscellaneous Coding GuidelinesA Documentation Strategy:

All encounters must contain– Patient Name & DOB on every page– Date of Service– Signature of provider + credentials– Compliant signatures (authenticated electronic signatures or original

signatures-typed or stamped signatures not acceptable)– Document to highest specificity

Page 41: HCC CODING training manual

CONDITION SPECIFIC CODING GUIDELINES

1.Hypertension & CKD (HCC Categories 80, 131):

Fourth digit indicates malignant (40X.0) or benign (40X.1), and unless documented with these terms must code 40X.9 (Unspecified)

– Benign HTN is essential hypertension, usually chronic, asymptomatic and

without target organ damage

– Malignant HTN is an accelerated hypertensive disorder, with diastolic BP usually >140 and accompanied by encephalopathy, nephropathy, retinopathy, heart failure or myocardial ischemia

– Controlled or Uncontrolled? Indicates clinical response to treatment, but does not differentiate between benign and malignant type

Elevated blood Pressure does not code to hypertension-use 796.2

Page 42: HCC CODING training manual

CONDITION SPECIFIC CODING GUIDELINES

How is HTN related to Heart and Kidney Disease? Elevated BP increases pressure in the blood vessels, causing thickening over time. As the heart pumps against this pressure, it must work harder. This increased work

causes the heart muscle to thicken, eventually leading to congestive heart failure if not treated.

The thicker heart muscle needs more oxygen, and insufficient oxygen can lead to

ischemia (angina) Thickening of the blood vessels may worsen atherosclerosis. This is most damaging to

the smallest blood vessels, such as in the heart and kidney, leading to damage of these end organs

Page 43: HCC CODING training manual

CONDITION SPECIFIC CODING GUIDELINES

Systolic & Diastolic Heart Failure: • Systolic HF- a pumping problem caused by the ventricle losing its ability to contract

normally because the heart muscle has become weak • Diastolic HF is the result of a filling problem, caused by the ventricle losing its

ability to relax normally because the heart muscle has become stiff. The heart can’t fill with enough blood resulting in too little blood being pumped back out into the body

• Most patients have a combination of both; usually classified as whichever is worst

Page 44: HCC CODING training manual

CONDITION SPECIFIC CODING GUIDELINES

HTN & Heart Disease: • Documentation must state a causal (‘due to’ or ‘secondary to’), or implied (using

the adjective ‘Hypertensive’) relationship between HTN and Heart Disease –it is not assumed

– Hypertensive CHF 402.91 & 428.0– Hypertensive HF 402.91 & 428.0– HTN due to CHF 402.91 & 428.0– HF due to HTN 402.91 & 428.9

• Dual code requirement of 402.XX and Heart Disease code.• More than one code from category 428 may be assigned

Page 45: HCC CODING training manual

CONDITION SPECIFIC CODING GUIDELINES

HTN LINKED HEART DISEASE w/CHF

• REQUIRES TWO CODES-ONE EACH FROM HTN HEART DZ AND CHF

• HCC CHF UNSPECIFIED 428.0• HCC LEFT HEART FAILURE 428.1• HCC SYSTOLIC-UNSPEC 428.20• HCC SYSTOLIC-ACUTE 428.21• HCC SYSTOLIC-CHRONIC 428.22• HCC DIASTOLIC-UNSPEC 428.30• HCC DIASTOLIC-ACUTE 428.31• HCC DIASTOLIC-CHRONIC 428.32• HCC COMBINED-UNSPEC 428.40• HCC COMBINED-ACUTE 428.41• HCC COMBINED-CHRONIC 428.42• HCC HEART FAILURE UNSPECIFIED 428.9

HYPERTENSIVE HEART DISEASE (HCVD)

• RX ONLY BENIGN W/O HF 402.10• RX ONLY UNSPEC HTN W/O HF 402.90• RX ONLY MALIGNANT W/O HF 402.00• HCC **BENIGN W/CHF 402.11• HCC **UNSPEC HTN W/CHF 402.91• HCC **MALIGNANT W/CHF 402.01

Page 46: HCC CODING training manual

CONDITION SPECIFIC CODING GUIDELINES

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): • Four digits-the fourth indicates stage of disease. Stage 1&2 need additional evidence of• Kidney damage, such as urine protein that persists for 3 months or more, ultrasound or biopsy • Documentation must include stage, or is coded as 585.9 CKD unspecified Dialysis • Hemodialysis is the process of filtering the patient’s blood through a machine. Performed either as outpatient or

inpatient • Peritoneal dialysis uses the patient’s abdominal lining to remove toxins. Usually performed in the patient’s home.

Staging CKDStage Severity GFR Value ICD-9

Stage 1 some kidney damage with minimal or slight change in GFR (GFR >90 ml/min) with kidney damage - 585.1Stage 2 Mild Kidney damage (GFR 60-89 ml/min) with kidney damage - 585.2Stage 3 Moderate Kidney damage (GFR 30-59 ml/min) - 585.3Stage 4 Severe Kidney damage (GFR 15-29 ml/min) - 585.4Stage 5 Kidney Failure (GFR < 15 ml/min) - 585.5ESRD Requiring chronic dialysis or transplantation - 585.6 CKD Unsp. CKD NOS, Chronic Renal Failure or Chronic Renal Insufficiency - 585.9

Page 47: HCC CODING training manual

CONDITION SPECIFIC CODING GUIDELINES

HTN & CKD **REQUIRES TWO CODES-ONE FROM HTN DZ AND CKD: • RX ONLY BENIGN W/CKD (STAGE I-IV) 403.10• HCC BENIGN W/CKD V-ESRD 403.11• RX ONLY UNSPEC W/CKD (STAGE I-IV) 403.90• HCC UNSPEC W/CKD V-ESRD 403.91• RX ONLY BEN W/O HF W/CKD ST I-IV 404.10• HCC BEN W/O HF W/CKD ESRD 404.12• RX ONLY UNSPEC W/O HF W/CKD I-IV 404.90• RX ONLY MALIGNANT W/CKD (ST I-IV) 403.00• HCC MAL W/O CHF W/CKD ESRD 404.02• HCC MALIGNANT W/CKD V-ESRD 403.01• CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE (CKD) • HCC CHRONIC STAGE 1 GFR>90 585.1• HCC MILD STAGE 2 GRF 60-89 585.2• HCC MOD STAGE 3 GFR 30-59 585.3• HCC SEVERE STAGE 4 GFR 15-29 585.4• HCC 5 GFR <15 585.5• HCC ESRD W/DIALYSIS 585.6• HCC CKD UNSPEC, CRF 585.9• HCC RENAL DIALYSIS STATUS V45.11

Page 48: HCC CODING training manual

CONDITION SPECIFIC CODING GUIDELINES

ESRD Coding: • Dual code requirement for patient on dialysis

585.6 ESRDV45.11 Renal Dialysis status

• ESRD on Hemodialysis due to Diabetes250.40585.6V45.11

CKD and HTN (403.XX): • Relationship may be assumed between these conditions if both are reported

• Dual code required when 403 series is used, indicating the related CKD (585.x)

– – Hypertensive* CKD Stage 4 - 403.90 & 585.4– – HTN & ESRD on dialysis (CKD Stage 6)-403.91 & 585.6 & V45.11

• Even though coders may assume this relationship, coach providers to use the adjective form of the

diagnosis

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CONDITION SPECIFIC CODING GUIDELINES

Hypertensive Heart & Kidney (404.XX): • Both hypertensive kidney disease and hypertensive heart disease must be stated,

although the relationship between hypertension and the CKD is assumed

• Any hypertensive heart disease is acceptable, not just HF • 5th digits are assigned

– 0 without HF and with CKD Stage 1-4 or unsp– 1 with HF and with CKD Stage 1-4 or unsp– 2 without HF and with CKD Stage 5 or ESRD– 3with HF and with CKD Stage 5 or ESRD

Page 50: HCC CODING training manual

CONDITION SPECIFIC CODING GUIDELINES

HTN HEART DISEASE W/CHF & CKD **REQUIRES THREE CODES ONE FROM HTN HEART DZ, CKD AND CHF Use add'l code

– HCC **MAL W/HF W/CKD STAGE I-IV 404.01– HCC **MAL W/CHF W/CKD ESRD 404.03– HCC **BEN W/ HF W/CKD ST I-IV 404.11– HCC **BEN W/ HF W/CKD ESRD 404.13– HCC **UNSPEC I-IV 404.91– HCC **UNSPEC W/HF W/CKD ESRD 404.93

CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE (CKD)

– HCC CHRONIC STAGE 1 GFR>90 585.1– HCC MILD STAGE 2 GRF 60-89 585.2– HCC MOD STAGE 3 GFR 30-59 585.3– HCC SEVERE STAGE 4 GFR 15-29 585.4– HCC NO DIALYSIS STATE 5 GFR <15 585.5– HCC ESRD W/DIALYSIS 585.6– HCC CKD UNSPEC, CRF 585.9– HCC RENAL DIALYSIS STATUS V45.11

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CONDITION SPECIFIC CODING GUIDELINES

HTN LINKED HEART DISEASE w/CHF REQUIRES TWO CODES-ONE EACH FROM HTN HEART DZ AND CHF

– HCC CHF UNSPECIFIED 428.0– HCC LEFT HEART FAILURE 428.1– HCC SYSTOLIC-UNSPEC 428.20– HCC SYSTOLIC-ACUTE 428.21– HCC SYSTOLIC-CHRONIC 428.22– HCC DIASTOLIC-UNSPEC 428.30– HCC DIASTOLIC-ACUTE 428.31– HCC DIASTOLIC-CHRONIC 428.32– HCC COMBINED-UNSPEC 428.40– HCC COMBINED-ACUTE 428.41– HCC COMBINED-CHRONIC 428.42– HCC HEART FAILURE UNSPECIFIED 428.9

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2.Diabetes Coding (HCC Categories 15, 16, 18, 19, 119): • Documentation of complications or manifestations must be stated (‘due to’ or

‘secondary to’), or implied (Diabetic) and are reported with 4th digit • If Type I or II is not mentioned code unspecified or type II DM. If controlled or

uncontrolled is not mentioned in the record, then code as controlled DM. • Do not code 250.00 along with DM manifestations. • Type I or II indicates type-Juvenile onset or Adult onset. (Type is not dictated by

use of insulin) • If documentation indicates that the patient uses insulin routinely, append V58.67 • Sequence the 250 codes before the codes for the associated conditions • Secondary diabetes coded to 249.XX

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5TH Digit in Diabetes Coding • 0 indicates Type 2 or unspecified, not stated as controlled or uncontrolled • 1 indicates Type 1, not stated as controlled or uncontrolled • 2 indicates type 2 or unspecified, uncontrolled • 3 indicates type 1, uncontrolled • Age is not a determining factor for type, though many develop Type 1 before

reaching puberty, thus the term ‘Juvenile’ diabetes.

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Diabetes 249.XX • Secondary Diabetes-Diabetes whose underlying cause is not genetics or

environmental conditions accounts for 1-5% of total diabetes cases. Presence of another underlying condition is major differentiating factor.

• Coders must know: – Manifestation– Control– Underlying etiology

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Causes of Secondary Diabetes

– Chronic pancreatitis– Hemochromatosis– Pancreatic disease due to cancer, trauma or other endocrine diseases– Carcinoid tumors of lung, intestine or stomach– Adrenal and pituitary tumors– Celiac disease and other autoimmune diseases– Removal of pancreas– Orchiectomy-removal of testes for cancer

Drugs and chemical agents:

– Diuretics and beta blockers– Hormones– Steroids– Antipsychotics, lithium and antidepressants– HIV drugs– Seizure drugs– Immunosuppressive drugs

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Diabetes 250.XX• Type 1 thought to be genetic, where the pancreas does not produce enough insulin. This usuallymanifests at an early age, and usually requiresinsulin to manage, but not always• Type 2 diabetes is caused by insulin resistanceinsulin is produced, but the body does not respondproperly. This usually (but not always) manifests in adulthood, may be managed with diet andexercise, but may require oral meds or insulin. It may have a genetic component too.

4TH DIGIT MANIFESTATION– 0 NO COMPLICATION– 1 KETOACIDOSIS– 2 HYPEROSMOLALITY– 3 COMA– 4 RENAL MANIFESTATIONS– 5 OPTHALMOLOGICAL– 6 NEUROLOGICAL– 7 PERIPHERAL– CIRCULATORY– 8 OTHER SPECIFIED– 9 UNSPECIFIED MANIFESTATIONS

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Linking Words• Linking words create relationship between diseases and manifestations• Assures coders of a cause and effect between disease and manifestation, as we cannot assume(except in hypertensive renal disease)• Appropriate terms:

– Due to– Secondary to– Use of associative suffix ‘ic’ or ‘ive’ (diabetic ulcer or hypertensive heart disease)

For example:Peripheral neuropathy due to DM

250.60 Diabetes with neurological manifestations357.2 Polyneuropathy in DM

Diabetic Peripheral vascular disease250.70 Diabetes with peripheral circulatory disorders443.81 Peripheral Angiopathy In Diseases Classified Elsewhere

Dm with neuro manifestations – 250.60 only

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3. Ulcers (HCC Categories 148, 149):

Ulcers and Wounds:• These terms are not synonymous, although wounds can develop into ulcers

– Wounds are due to trauma or surgery-not risk adjusted– Ulcers are caused by skin breakdown from pressure or other chronic conditions (nonpressure)

• Code ulcers to 707 series• Code wounds to 870-879 series

Types:– Non-pressure, or chronic– Decubitus, or pressure, stages 1-5

Documentation is critical, as decubitus ulcers carry a higher risk adjustmentStage 1 pressure ulcer of sacrum= 707.03 & 707.2Diabetic calf ulcer= 250.80 & 707.12

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4. Cardiac Disease Coding (HCC Categories 82, 83, 92):

– 412 Old MI (myocardial infarction)-means > 8 weeks, currently presenting no symptoms. Documentation may say ‘Old MI’, ‘h/o MI’, or‘s/p MI’

– 410 Code series used for myocardial infarction <8 weeks in duration. The initial or subsequent episode of care for selection of 5th digit by reviewing the document carefully.

– 411 Code series indicate other acute or subacute forms of ischemic heart disease

– 413 Code series used for various types of angina

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5. Vascular Diseases (HCC Categories 104, 105):

• 440 Atherosclerosis-a condition where there is reduced elasticity of the vessels andnarrowing of vessel lumen

• 443 Peripheral Vascular Disease-a condition where the vessels in the arms or legs arecompromised causing blood flow issues. Common symptom intermittent claudication.

• 451-453 Phlebitis and Thrombophlebitisconditions where vessels are irritated (‘-itis’)by disease or infection, or clogged (thrombo-) and irritated by blood clots

Acute DVT: Initial episode of care, code 453.4x

Chronic DVT: – Must be documented as chronic, code 453.5x – Do not code DVT prophylaxis.

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Atherosclerosis 440:

• Aortic atherosclerosis 440.0 May be noted from X-rays taken for other reasons-a Chest X-ray may show aortic atherosclerosis. Documentation must detail the finding of aortic atherosclerosis, (not just atherosclerosis) and the treatment plan for this condition

• Atherosclerosis of extremities with Gangrene is coded to 440.24

• ASPVD with Ulceration without gangrene coded to 440.23 (addnl code for ulcer)

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6. Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA) (HCC Categories 75, 95, 96):

• Use 434.91 for the initial episode of care for an acute cerebrovascular event –may be documented as CVA or stroke- (usually within 24 hrs)• Use V12.54 for a history of CVA/TIA with NO residual effects• Once discharged, late effects are coded to 438 series Late Effects

• The residual effect after the acute phase (24 hrs for CVA) of an illness or injury has passed• No time limit on when a late effect code can be used• Requires documentation that the residual effect was caused by the illness or injury• Code first the condition, followed by the late effect• ‘Weakness’ is not appropriate documentation of hemiplegia or hemiparesis due to CVA

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7.Respiratory Diseases (HCC Categories 108, 111, 112):• COPD (Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) is a lung condition whereby the lungs lose elasticity

and it is difficult to breathe, often associated with smoking

• Chronic bronchitis is inflammation of the airways that causes increased mucus to be produced. Bronchitis is considered chronic if there is cough and excess mucus production most days for three months in a year, two years in a row.

• Emphysema is a condition where the fine lacy architecture of the lung is disrupted, with less surface area available to exchange oxygen

COPD & Asthma• COPD (Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) is a nonspecific ‘umbrella term’ for a host of

conditions, and is used when type of COPD is not specified– 491 Chronic bronchitis– 492 Emphysema– 493 Asthma

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Documentation for Chronic Obstructive Bronchitis

• Code selection must be based upon terms as documented• 491.20 ‘Chronic bronchitis without exacerbation of COPD’• 491.21 ‘Chronic bronchitis with COPD exacerbation

– “Acute exacerbation of COPD”– “Decompensated COPD”

• 491.22 “COPD with acute bronchitis”

Coding for Emphysema

• 492.0 Emphysematous bleb-usually found on imaging studies• 492.8 other emphysema-lung or pulmonary, centriacinar, centrilobular,

obstructive, panacinar, panlobular, unilateral, vesicular

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Coding for Asthma

4th Digit defines Type• 493.0 Extrinsic, or allergic asthma, means that the cause is external to the body, such as from hay or other

airborne allergens. This causes the majority of childhood asthma• 493.1 intrinsic asthma-cause not precisely known, usually has onset later in life• 493.2 chronic obstructive asthma-occurs in the presence of COPD• 493.8 other forms of asthma• 493.81-exercise induced bronchospasm• 493.82-Cough variant asthma• 493.9-asthma unspecified

5th Digit defines current encounter– 0 UNSPECIFIED– 1 WITH STATUS ASTMATICUS (a life-threatening form of asthma in which progressively worsening

reactive airways are unresponsive to usual appropriate therapy that leads to pulmonary insufficiency)

– 2 WITH ACUTE EXACERBATION (a worsening or decompensation)

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8.Major Depression (296) (HCC Category 55):

• Use of 296 category requires significant documentation that is not familiar to most primary care providers, but is a common condition that risk adjusts even in remission. 311 is appropriate for situational depression or depressed mood due to bereavement

Documentation for Major Depression• Not directly due to a substance or bereavement• Symptoms present for 2 weeks or more and cause clinically significant distress or impairment• *At least one of the following:

– Depressed mood most of the day, nearly every day– Diminished interest in activities

• *At least 4 of the following:– Weight/appetite loss or gain (>5% in a month)– Insomnia or hypersomnia– Agitation or retardation observed by others– Feelings of worthlessness or guilt– Diminished ability to think or concentrate– Recurrent thoughts of death, suicidal ideation or attempt

*PHQ-9 Score of 10, or some other standardized tool (Beck) may be used in lieu of above. This documentation must be noted with the provider’s credentials and date of service in order to be considered.

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9.Malnutrition (263) (HCC Category 21):

• Supportive documentation:– Albumin <3.4– Unintentional weight loss >10% over 6 months– Unintentional weight loss>5% over 3 months– BMI <18.5– Poor nutrition or loss of appetite– Wasted appearance, or muscle wasting

10.Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): – Chronic, systemic inflammatory disorder

• Attacks flexible (synovial) joints • Code 714.0 • Use additional code to identify manifestation when documented

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11.Neoplasms(HCC Category 10):

• Current treatment codes to active cancer code, even if there is no evidence of disease. Documentation must state “Breast cancer on Arimidex…”

• If there is no evidence of disease and the patient is not being treated, the V code is reported.• If documentation does not state that there is active disease or treatment, the V code is used• Patients with cancer that is not being treated are coded to active cancer

Metastasis of Cancer• Metastatic cancer (spread of cancer to another organ system) is the highest risk adjusted

diagnosis, and documentation is critical!• If there is metastasis, documentation must state the primary cancer and the location of the

metastasis (mets). “Brain cancer with mets to lung’. Code primary cancer first, then mets• If the primary cancer has been removed and treatment is directed at the mets, code the mets

first, followed by the V code for the primary cancer. Documentation must state “history of breast cancer with mets to lung”

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Codes that Providers Often Miss:

• Artificial openings• Amputations• Aortic aneurysm• Aortic atherosclerosis• If these are not documented yearly, the codes are not considered in the payment

for the following year!

ICD9 Codes Only • Some physician records contain only ICD-9-CM codes without the code’s

description. For risk adjustment coding, there must be documentation of the condition elsewhere on that DOS. If the record does not document the condition (other than listing only the ICD9 code), do not code the condition.

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I.Cancer • If documentation is not clear regarding whether a neoplasm is benign or malignant, use the alphabetic

index to find the morphological term used to describe the behavior of the neoplasm. For example, the term leiomyosarcoma is indexed to malignant neoplasms in the ICD-9 code book. On the other hand, lipoblastoma is indexed to benign neoplasms in the ICD-9 coding manual.

Current Cancer vs. History • Coders must use the entire document for each DOS to determine whether the malignancy should be coded

history or current. Documentation must show clear presence of current disease to code current malignancy. There are some instances in which the malignancy should be coded as current.

1. Document indicates either the patient or physician chose not to treat the cancer (e.g. choosing not to continue treatment of a terminal disease) OR

2. Document shows evidence of current/ongoing treatment of the disease: – Chemotherapy (e.g. antineoplastic medications) – Radiation therapy (e.g. including radioactive seed implantation to provide continuous ambulatory radiation) – Suppressive therapy (e.g. hormonal therapy, like Lupron for advanced prostate cancer) – Surgical treatment (e.g. a preoperative examination prior to colectomy) OR

3. Documentation shows that current treatment is being temporarily stopped for the following reasons: – To determine an appropriate or alternate treatment plan for the patient’s cancer – To allow the patient to rest clinically from the effects of treatment (chemo/radiation) – To transfer of care where treatment is to be continued by another provider

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Primary vs. Secondary • Metastatic from = Primary Example: Malignancy of the colon metastatic from prostate.

– Colon cancer is secondary – Prostate cancer is primary

• Metastatic to = Secondary Example: Breast cancer with metastasis to the mediastinal lymph nodes. – Breast cancer is primary – Mediastinal lymph nodes cancer is secondary.

• If the documentation just says “metastatic” assign the primary malignancy along with an additional code for secondary of unspecified site 199.1. (Faye Brown’s ICD-9-CM Coding Handbook 2011, pg. 381)

• If a malignancy is not specified as primary or secondary, for coding purposes we assume its primary unless the site is one of the following: – Bone, Brain, Diaphragm, Heart, Liver (see below) – Lymph nodes, Mediastinum, Meninges, Peritoneum, Pleura, Retroperitoneum, Spinal cord

• Malignant neoplasms of these sites are classified as secondary when not otherwise specified, except for neoplasm of the liver. *The liver basically has 3 possible morphological designations: – Liver, primary – code 155.0 – Liver, secondary – code 198.89 – Liver, not specified as primary or secondary – code 155.2

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In Remission

• Lymphoma patients who are “in remission” are still considered to have lymphoma and should be assigned the appropriate code from categories 200-202 (AHA Coding Clinic for ICD-9-CM, 1992, 2Q, p3). Do not to confuse lymph node metastasis with lymphoma. Do not assign a history code for lymphoma stated as in remission.

• For use with 203-208 category of ICD-9 codes – 0 Without mention of having achieved remission – 1 In remission – 2 In relapse

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In-Situ • A neoplasm described as in-situ (230-234) has not metastasized or spread to any other area of the body.

ICD-9 offers specific guidance via the index for coding purposes. A neoplasm described as both in-situ and secondary, represents a conflict in the medical documentation. Look carefully through the history section of the medical record if past medical treatment (surgical/radiation/chemotherapy) or other indication exists to support the behavior of the neoplasm. Use sound coding judgment and context to determine the appropriate behavior based on the treatment(s) documented and MEAT to support the chosen code.

• Carcinoma in situ: Cancer that has stayed in the place where it began and has not spread to neighboring tissues (for example, squamous cell carcinoma in situ). The term is synonymous with high-grade dysplasia in most organs. The risk of transforming into cancer is high.

Example 1

Medical record documentation

The record states the patient had a radical mastectomy for right breast cancer 8 months ago, followed by chemotherapy and radiation that was completed 2 months ago, followed by initiation of Tamoxifen for adjuvant therapy for current breast cancer. The record does not state the specific purpose of Tamoxifen therapy. Record states the patient is tolerating the Tamoxifen well.

Coding advice In this scenario, breast cancer is coded as current. The record states Tamoxifen is adjuvant therapy for current breast cancer, does not describe breast cancer as historical, and does not state the patient is cancer free or without evidence of disease.

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Example 2

Chief Complaint Prostate cancer

History of Present Illness Seen today for metastatic prostate cancer. Prior records reviewed, has been maintained on monthly Lupron injections for the past year with last PSA 3 months ago down to 1.9. Currently no pain with urination, no gross hematuria, no urinary incontinence. Takes Flomax daily which helps improve overall urinary stream. No bone pain or weight loss.

Review of Systems As above. All other systems negative.

Physical Exam BP 118/70, P 78, R 18, T 98.2. Well nourished, well developed male in no acute distress. Alert & oriented. Lungs clear. Heart RRR, S1 & S2, no gallops, rubs or murmurs. Abdomen soft and non-tender with no evidence of mass or organomegaly. Extremities: no cyanosis, clubbing or edema. Genital &rectal exam deferred today. No lymphadenopathy noted.

Assessment Metastatic prostate cancer

Plan Discussed with patient a three-month Trelstar injection today – all questions answered. Trelstar LA 11.25 mixed in standard fashion and injected deep IM to R hip. Tolerated well. Does not require refill of Flomax today. PSA in 10 weeks with f/u office in 12 weeks.

ICD-9-CM codes 185, 199.1

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II.Acute/Old MI • Myocardial infarction is coded as acute (410.XX) for the first 8 weeks following onset. In category 410 the

fourth digit indicates location of the infarct and the fifth digit indicates episode of care. Note that a fifth digit of 1 should be used during the initial episode of care, which likely will occur in an inpatient or ER setting.

• After 8 weeks have passed, myocardial infarction is considered Old MI (412). If unable to determine age of the infarct, use 412. Many different terms are used to describe past heart attacks, some of the most common terms are listed below. Please note you will likely find this information in the past medical history (PMH).

PMI – perioperative myocardial infarction

Health previous myocardial infarction

AMI -acute myocardial infarction

Old Septal MI Healed or Old cardiac thrombus Anterior wall MI

Inferoposterior MI Prior small inferior wall myocardial infarction

NSTEMI / STEMI (non ST-elevation / ST elevation myocardial infarction)

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Example 1After emergency room evaluation, a patient was admitted to Memorial Hospital with a diagnosis of

acuteanterior wall myocardial infarction. There was no history of previous infarction or previous care for thisepisode. During the hospital stay, the patient experienced a second acute anterolateral infarction.ICD-9-CM codes 410.11, 410.01

Example 2Patient presents to cardiologist’s office for post-hospital evaluation. Record documents 76 y/o male

admittedto XYZ Medical Center four weeks ago with c/o chest pain. Was noted to have acute lateral wall

myocardialinfarction and had placement of stent mid circumflex. Recommendation is to continue cardiac rehab.ICD-9-CM code 410.52

Example 3Inferior MI six months ago – 412

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III.Stroke/Acute Cerebrovascular Disease (Codes 430-437)

• Codes from 430-437 should be used ONLY during the initial episode of care. After this, use a “history” code or late effects code.

• During the initial episode of care, an acute CVA that results in current neurologic deficits is coded from the 430-434.9 series, with additional codes assigned to represent the specific neurologic deficit. For example, an inpatient admission for acute CVA with a current associated right Hemiplegia is coded 434.91 for the acute CVA and 342.90 for the associated right Hemiplegia

• Late effects codes should be used anytime after the initial episode of care when documentation states a condition was caused by a past stroke. Evidence of the residual condition should be included in documentation on that DOS.

• In some cases, a patient is admitted with an acute CVA with current associated deficits while at the same time having current neurologic deficits that are the result of a past CVA. In this case, codes are assigned from both categories 430-437 and 438.

• V12.54 is assigned only when there is a history of CVA with no residual deficits. • According to Coding Clinic, 2005 Q1, the term "weakness" secondary to old CVA is not to be coded as

hemiparesis/Hemiplegia. Weakness is coded as 728.87, muscle weakness, and if noted to be secondary to old CVA, then 438.89, other late effects of cerebrovascular disease should also be coded.

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Example 1

Final Diagnostic Statement Admit for acute CVA in patient with old right hemiparesis from past stroke

ICD-9-CM code(s) 434.91, 438.20

Example 2

Final Diagnostic Statement Embolic stroke with dysphasia

Plan Admit and request stat neurology consult.

ICD-9-CM code(s) 434.11, 784.59

Example 3

Final Diagnostic Statement Receiving home health speech therapy services related to oropharyngeal dysphagia caused by cerebrovascular accident one month ago.

ICD-9-CM code(s) 438.82, 787.22

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IV.Aneurysm

• If an aneurysm has been repaired, it no longer exists and should not be coded. History of aneurysm should be coded V12.59.

• As always, code assignment is dependent on the documentation in the

individual medical record. Best practice includes documentation that is clear, concise and specific, fully describing the aortic aneurysm or dissection, including all of the following: – The specific location along the aorta (i.e., abdominal, thoracic,

thoracoabdominal, etc.) – The current status (i.e., stable, enlarging, specific measurements, etc.) – The current treatment plan (i.e., ultrasound in six months to monitor,

continue to monitor with repeat CT scan in one year, referral to vascular surgeon for evaluation, etc.)

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1.Final Diagnostic Statement Aneurysm of the ascending aorta, currently measures 4.0 cm by CT.

Plan Continue observation and recheck at annual exam next year.

ICD-9-CM code(s) 441.2

Comments The ascending aorta is part of the thoracic aorta and classifies to code 441.2.

2.Final Diagnostic Statement Asymptomatic thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm: stable. Thoracoabdominal aorta dilation 3.4 cm by diagnostic CT scan 2 yrs. ago, time for recheck.

Plan Scheduled for CT scan of the chest and abdomen at Medical Center next Tuesday at 8:00 AM.

ICD-9-CM code(s) 441.7

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V.DVT/PE

• Acute DVT (453.4X) or acute pulmonary embolism (415.19) is a newly developed clot that requires the initiation of anticoagulant therapy. DVT and PE can only be coded during initial episode of care.

• Chronic DVT (453.5X) can only be coded if the provider documents that the condition is chronic.

• Do not assume that patients on anticoagulation meds have chronic DVT. Anticoagulation meds could be for prevention of recurrence, which would be coded history of DVT (V12.51).

• Do not code prophylaxis for DVT as current DVT. (Prophylaxis is to help prevent DVT.)

• In a patient with chronic DVT or PE be cautious that the condition is indicated as current and not listed as past medical history.

• When a patient with DVT or PE requires long term anticoagulation it is important to document this along with the management plan.

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Example 1

Patient presents with chief complaint of swelling in legs & calf tenderness for past two days. Objective data includes asymmetric swelling with the right leg measuring close to 42 cm, the left measuring at 37 cm. Positive Homan’s sign. Stat venous Doppler shows DVT in the right posterior tibial. Negative left leg venous Doppler. Started on Coumadin 5 mg daily and Lovenox 80 mg subQ bid until INR therapeutic between 2 & 3.

ICD-9-CM code: 453.42

Example 2

Patient presents for anticoagulant follow-up for recurrent DVT. Physical exam unremarkable. INR 2.8 (therapeutic).

Plan: Continue current Coumadin dose – 5mg M-W-F, 2.5 mg others. Written instructions reviewed with & given to patient. Recheck 1 month.

ICD-9-CM code: V58.61

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VI.Fractures

Fractures which map to HCCs are usually coded from IP or ER records. Below are some examples for which an acute fracture code (pathological or traumatic) should be used:

• Surgical intervention and/or the hospital stay during which surgical intervention was performed.

• Initial stabilization, such as that done in an emergency room. • The first visit for assumption of (taking over) care from one doctor to another. • For example: if the surgical/stabilization care only was done by one provider (circumstances

where global package with modifier 54 would be charged) and the remainder of the care is assumed by a different provider (circumstances where global package with modifier 55 would be charged), both of these would be reported with the acute fracture code.”

• Traumatic and pathologic fractures are coded using the aftercare codes (subcategories V54.17 and V54.27) for encounters after the patient has completed active treatment as described above and is receiving routine care for the fracture during the healing or recovery phase. Examples of fracture aftercare include medication adjustment and follow-up visits.

• When the medical record does not specify whether the fracture is traumatic or pathologic, the default is traumatic.

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Example 1

80 year old female presents with complaints of low back pain x 1 week. She has a history of osteoporosis. Patient states the pain is mild to moderate, but seems to be getting better. Lumbar X-ray in the office today shows compression fracture at L1-L2.

Impression Lumbar compression fracture

Plan Advised to take OTC ibuprofen three tablets every 4-6 hours for low back pain. Return to the office for re-eval in two weeks if symptoms do not continue to improve.

ICD-9-CM code 805.4

Example 2

Patient comes in today for routine follow-up. Voices no new complaints. Continues to wear back brace for chronic spinal compression fractures diagnosed at last visit two months ago.

Impression Chronic spinal compression fractures

Plan Continue back brace and pain meds. Refilled Fosamax.

ICD-9-CM code 733.13

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VII. Sick Sinus Syndrome (SSS) SSick sinus syndrome classifies to code 427.81. This code also includes:

– Sinoatrial node dysfunction – Severe sinus bradycardia – Chronic sinus bradycardia – Persistent sinus bradycardia – Tachycardia-bradycardia syndrome

• When a patient has a previously placed pacemaker and it is interrogated during a hospitalization or in the office setting, code V53.31 is assigned (Fitting and adjustment of other device, Cardiac device, cardiac pacemaker).

• • A code is not assigned for sick sinus syndrome when it is being controlled by the pacemaker and no problems are detected during the check. Interrogation is a routine check, which is done via computer to assess pacemaker function. The pacemaker is routinely evaluated to ensure the device is programmed accurately as well as to assess battery and lead function. Pacemaker settings may be reprogrammed, if required.

• Thus, sick sinus syndrome (SSS) can be coded as a current condition only when documented as a continuing and ongoing problem; and, if a pacemaker is present, the condition is not controlled by the pacemaker.

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Example:

Reason for Visit Follow-up for heart disease History of Present Illness Continues to have shortness of breath, dizziness, swelling in

LE, some difficulty walking – uses a cane for aid with ambulation. Past Medical History CAD, hyperlipidemia, HTN, IDDM, CHF, SSS, stroke/TIA, DJD,

depression Medications Neurontin, Lipitor, furosemide, Humulin insulin, ASA, Plavix, potassium,

atenolol, Zoloft, OTC Tylenol Physical Exam BP 118/88. P 52 and regular. No JVD; normal respiratory effort;

diminished breath sounds bilat; Heart regular but slow, PMI not displaced, no thrills, lifts, or palpable S3 or S4, 1+ pitting edema of the ankles, normal pedal pulses with good capillary refill. Recent carotid dopplers look good.

Assessment 1) HTN controlled 2) IDDM 3) CHF – stable 4) persistent sinus bradycardia Plan Take an extra Lasix daily if needed for swelling in LE. Refer to cardiology for eval

of persistent sinus bradycardia, possible pacemaker placement. ICD-9-CM codes 401.9, 250.00, 428.0, 427.81, 272.4, 414.01, V58.67, 311

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VIII.Artificial openings

• An artificial opening is a surgically created opening from the outside surface of the body into an internal body structure. (For example, a colostomy is a surgically created artificial opening from the abdominal wall into the colon; a tracheostomy is a surgically created artificial opening from the outside surface of the neck into the trachea).

• Artificial opening status classifies to category V44. • Attention to artificial openings classifies to category V55. The “attention to”

codes are not assigned for the date of the initial placement or surgical creation of an artificial opening. On the date an artificial opening is surgically created, the services are reported using procedure codes and the ICD-9-CM code(s) that represent the condition for which the artificial opening was surgically created. The “attention to” codes are used for subsequent visits that occur after the initial surgery in which the artificial opening was created.

• Artificial openings can be coded when the record clearly shows the artificial opening, complication, fitting of, attention to, etc. is still present and current.

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• suprapubic cystostomy - V44.59– 596.81 Infection of cystostomy – 596.82 Mechanical complication of cystostomy – 596.83 Other complication of cystostomy

• Ileal conduit status: V44.6 (Status of other artificial opening of urinary tract) – Attention to ileal conduit: V55.6 (Attention to other artificial opening of

urinary tract) – Complication of an ileal conduit: 997.5 (Urinary complications).

• G-tube status: V44.1 (Assigned to document the presence of a G-tube) – Attention to a G-tube: V55.1 (Examples: simple irrigation or replacement

of a G-tube) – Complications of gastrostomy tubes: Subcategory 536.4

• J-tube status: V44.4, Status of other artificial opening of gastrointestinal tract. – Attention to a J-tube: V55.4, Attention to other artificial openings of

digestive tract.

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CRITICAL CONDITIONS CODING GUIDELINES

IX.Atrial fibrillation

• The documentation shows atrial fibrillation is a current condition, responsible for current signs or symptoms that require further evaluation, management or treatment.

• Atrial fibrillation is listed in the final diagnostic statement and there is no contradictory information documented elsewhere in the record that indicates atrial fibrillation is not current.

• The AHA Coding Clinic guideline for Atrial fibrillation on medication maintenance, Third Quarter 1995, Page 8, advises chronic atrial fibrillation controlled on maintenance medication can be coded as a current condition if the physician documents the condition in the medical record and includes it in the final diagnostic statement.

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CRITICAL CONDITIONS CODING GUIDELINES

Example 1

• Subjective 73 year old female returns today for recheck regarding her long-term anticoagulation therapy secondary to her atrial fibrillation. Currently she is taking 3.5 mg of Coumadin daily. Her protime today is 27.3, INR 2.7. Denies any chest pain, palpitations, and shortness of breath or dizziness. Daughter in attendance and reports her mother continues to be forgetful but she is assisting her with her meds.

• Objective BP 120/82. Pulse 57. Respirations 16. Weight 150. Lungs clear to auscultation with no wheezes, rales or rhonchi. Heart regular rate and rhythm with no rubs, murmurs or gallops. Exam otherwise unremarkable.

• Assessment 1. Atrial fibrillation 2. Long term anticoagulant therapy 3. Early dementia

• Plan Continue current dose of Coumadin at 3.5 mg daily. Return to clinic in one month for recheck.

• ICD-9-CM code(s): 427.31, V58.61, 294.20 • Comments Atrial fibrillation is documented as a current condition on long-term

anticoagulant therapy.

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X.Cardiomyopathy:• A simple diagnostic statement of “cardiomyopathy” with no further description or

specification classifies to code 425.4, other primary cardiomyopathies. Code 425.4 includes cardiomyopathy described as congestive, constrictive, familial, idiopathic, obstructive, restrictive, and also includes cardiovascular collagenosis.

• Congestive cardiomyopathy is also known as dilated cardiomyopathy• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy can be obstructive or non-obstructive.

– 425.11 Hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy – 425.18 other hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

• Use caution when coding cardiomyopathy from acronyms (CM, HCM, HOCM, etc.) A code should not be assigned unless the meaning of the acronym is clear based on overall review of the entire record.

Example 1Final Diagnostic Statement Ischemic cardiomyopathy ICD-9-CM code(s) 414.8

Example 2 Final Diagnostic Statement Hypertensive cardiomyopathy ICD-9-CM code(s) 402.90, 425.8

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CRITICAL CONDITIONS CODING GUIDELINES

XI.Seizure Disorder/Epilepsy

Seizure - An abnormal electrical discharge in the brain caused by clearly identifiable external factors that may be resolved or reversed (for example, injury, high fever, substance abuse, metabolic disorders).

Epilepsy aka seizure disorder - A chronic brain disorder characterized by recurrent (two or more) seizures on more than one occasion that are not provoked by a clearly identifiable external factor.– Intractable Epilepsy – Epilepsy that does not respond to treatment. – Status epilepticus – A potentially life-threatening state in which a person experiences an abnormally

prolonged seizure (any seizure lasting longer than 5 minutes) or does not fully regain consciousness between seizures. This condition represents a medical emergency.

When a medical record documents a single seizure, code 780.39 is assigned. Category 345 represents Epilepsy and recurrent seizures.

As always, code assignment is dependent on the specific documentation in each individual medical record. Documentation should be clear and concise, fully describing

a) The specific type of seizure(s), convulsion(s), or epilepsy; b) The current status of the condition; and c) Any ongoing treatment.

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Example 1Final Diagnostic Statement: Grand mal seizures – on Dilantin Plan: Check Dilantin level ICD-9-CM code: 345.10

Example 2 Chief Complaint: Presents for follow-up of partial complex seizures. Reports no

seizure activity for last 60 months. Current seizure medications include carbamazepine 200 mg 1 ½ tablets bid. Medication compliance has been good.

Past Medical History: Patient has had seizure disorder since 1995; last seizure 2005; partial seizures are a result of ruptured aneurysm.

Review of Systems: All systems reviewed and negative. Physical Exam: All within normal limits. Assessment: Partial complex seizures Plan: Refill carbamazepine. Return in 3 months. ICD-9-CM code: 345.40

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CRITICAL CONDITIONS CODING GUIDELINES

XII.Pressure ulcer (aka pressure sore, bed sore, Decubitus ulcers)

• Two codes are required to report pressure ulcers.– 1. First, a code is assigned from the 707.00-707.09 series to report the site. – 2. An additional, second-listed code is assigned from the 707.20 – 707.25 series to report the stage.

• Codes in subcategory 707.2X are used for staging of pressure ulcers only and are not used with any other type of ulcer.

• Code 707.25 for unstageable pressure ulcer should not be confused with code 707.20 for unspecified stage of pressure ulcer. Code 707.25 is assigned when the stage of pressure ulcer cannot be determined (for example, the ulcer is covered by eschar, a tissue graft or a dressing) or for pressure ulcers documented as deep tissue injury but not documented as due to trauma.

• Bilateral pressure ulcers with the same stage and site are coded with only one code for the site and one code for the stage.

• Bilateral pressure ulcers at the same site but with different stages are coded with one code for the site and the appropriate codes for each stage.

• Multiple pressure ulcers at different sites and stages are coded with the appropriate codes for each different site and each different stage.

• If the documentation states a pressure ulcer is completely healed, no code is assigned. • If the documentation states a pressure ulcer is healing, appropriate codes are assigned based on the

documentation in the record. • If a patient is admitted with a pressure ulcer in one stage that progresses to a higher stage, the code for

the highest stage reported is assigned

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CRITICAL CONDITIONS CODING GUIDELINES

Example 1Final Diagnostic Statement: Gangrenous pressure ulcer right heel ICD-9-CM code(s) : 707.07, 785.4, 707.20

Example 2Final Diagnostic Statement : Pressure ulcer coccyx, not staged since covered

with dressing ICD-9-CM code(s): 707.03, 707.25

Example 3Final Diagnostic Statement: Stage I foot ulcer ICD-9-CM code(s): 707.15

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CRITICAL CONDITIONS CODING GUIDELINES

XIII.Peripheral Neuropathy• Peripheral neuropathy that is not further specified or described is coded 356.9. • Peripheral neuropathy of an arm/upper extremity (unilateral) classifies to code

354.9. Peripheral neuropathy of a leg/lower extremity (unilateral) classifies to code 355.8.

• Peripheral neuropathy of BOTH legs/lower extremities (bilateral) or BOTH arms/upper extremities (bilateral) represents a polyneuropathy and is coded 356.9. (AHA Coding Clinic guideline for Peripheral neuropathy, First Quarter 2013, Pages 3-4).

• Polyneuropathy of the lower extremities classifies to code 356.9. • A diagnostic statement of simply “Neuropathy” with no further specification or

description classifies to code 355.9. • Idiopathic peripheral autonomic neuropathy (assigned to category 337) should

not be confused with idiopathic peripheral neuropathy (assigned to category 356).

• Code 356.2 represents hereditary sensory neuropathy. Code 356.2 is assigned only when the record describes sensory neuropathy as hereditary.

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CRITICAL CONDITIONS CODING GUIDELINES

Example 1Final Diagnostic Statement Peripheral neuropathy related to vitamin B deficiency ICD-9-CM code(s) 266.9, 357.4

Example 2Final Diagnostic Statement Hereditary neuropathy ICD-9-CM code(s) 356.9

Example 3 Final Diagnostic Statement Hereditary sensory neuropathy ICD-9-CM code(s) 356.2

Example 4Final Diagnostic Statement Peripheral neuropathy due to chemotherapy ICD-9CM code(s) 357.6

Example 5 Final Diagnostic Statement Peripheral neuropathy left leg ICD-9-CM code(s) 355.8

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CRITICAL CONDITIONS CODING GUIDELINES

XIV.HYPOXIA

• Hypoxia and hypoxemia that are not further specified classify to code 799.02• Sleep-related hypoxia classifies to code 327.24. Nocturnal hypoxia (hypoxemia) is

hypoxia (hypoxemia) that occurs during sleep. Nocturnal hypoxia/hypoxemia also classifies to code 327.24.

• When hypoxia is documented with COPD, it is appropriate to code both conditions.

• A patient may have oxygen saturation below 90% on room air in record, but code 799.02 cannot be assigned unless the provider documents a diagnosis of hypoxia.

Example 1

Vitals: O2 saturation 89% on 4 LPMAssessment: Hypoxia on continuous home oxygen therapyICD-9 codes: 799.02, V46.2

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XV.Diabetes and Gangrene

• If a record documents both gangrene and diabetes, assume the gangrene is a consequence of diabetic peripheral circulatory disorder if no other cause is established by the documentation (especially if the gangrene is of the lower extremity). In this scenario, codes 250.7X and 785.4 would be assigned. If the record documents a history of a traumatic wound that led to gangrene, this would be coded as a complicated open wound, with the addition of codes 785.4 for gangrene and 250.0X for diabetes.

XVI.Diabetes and Osteomyelitis

• ICD-9-CM assumes a cause-and-effect relationship between diabetes and osteomyelitis when both conditions are documented and there is no documentation of any other cause unless the provider specifically states the two are not related. Diabetes not further specified that is documented with osteomyelitis, with no other specified cause, is coded 250.80, 731.8, and 730.0X.

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CMS Documentation Signature Requirement

For purposes of risk adjustment, the provider of service for face-to-face encounters is appropriately identified on the medical records via their signature and provider specialty credentials. Examples of acceptable types of physician signature are: – Handwritten signature or initials with credential– Electronic signature with authentication by the respective provider – MD, DO, NP, PA-C, PT, OT, MSW, CRNA, CNS, etc. must be documented so that the proper credentials of the treating

provider are clearly known. (Note: “Dr.” is not an accepted credential.)

Acceptable electronic signatures include: • Electronically signed by, • Authorized by, • Document generated by, • Sealed by,• Closed by, • Printed and signed, • Signature on file (with printed name), • Attested by, • Approved by, • Completed by, • Finalized by, • Validated by, etc. followed by the practitioner’s name and credentials.

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Valid Provider signature• P.A• RPA• N.P• ARNP• FNP• CRNP• MD• DM• DO• DPM• PT• OT• LCSW• LMSW• DNP• CNP• APRN• APN• ANPC (Adult Nurse Practioner certified)

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Documentation Tips• Commonly used by providers to mean the condition is part of the patient’s history,

‘h/o’ or ‘s/p’ is indicative to coders of a past condition and cannot be coded as active disease.

• Remember to use linking terms like ‘due to’ or ‘secondary to’ to describe relationships between diseases and manifestations

• Documentation must indicate a treatment plan for each diagnosis, such as ‘refer to cardiologist’, or ‘observation for exacerbation or worsening’ and an assessment, such as ‘stable’, ‘worsening’, ‘not responding to treatment’

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Clinical Specificity in Documentation

• Clinical specificity involves having a diagnosis fully documented in the source medical record instead of routinely defaulting to a general term for the diagnosis. It is important to understand medical terminology in order to identify terms in the medical record that may be a more specific description of a general term.

• Communication with the physician is key to improving documentation skills that allow for more specific coding. The following examples are guidelines and specific conditions selected from various chapters of ICD-9-CM (e.g., Circulatory, Respiratory, Neoplasm, etc.) that are representative of documentation and coding decisions that impact HCCs.

• The first three examples involve situations in which a physician may use the most common code for all forms of a disease and conditions. Remember, this practice has had no impact in the past on physician reimbursement. With the Risk Adjustment models, physicians must be careful to document the correct forms and manifestations of diseases and conditions.

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Clinical Specificity in Documentation

Example 1:Anemia (285.9) is the most commonly coded form of anemia in physician offices. However, there are

many types of anemia. Some are in the models and some are not. If the term “neutropenia” is used to describe the anemia, it must be coded to the more specific diagnosis code 288.0 (agranulocytosis), which groups to HCC 45. “Refractory” anemia is coded 238.7 (HCC 44). It is important that physicians document these types of anemia accurately.

Example 2:Pneumonia (486) unspecified is not in the model. If the organism responsible for the pneumonia (HCC

111-112) is known or if the physician documents that the patient aspirated prior to developing pneumonia (507.0 HCC 111), the more specific code should be reported

Example 3:Mental disorders in the HCC models require particular attention to specific wording in documentation

and coding. Episodic mood disorders (296.XX, HCC 55) are mental diseases that include mood disturbances such as major depression (296.2X-296.3X). Physicians are encouraged to carefully document the characteristics of the mood disturbance (e.g., mania, depression, single episode, recurrent episode, circular) and use specific mental disorder terminology in the final diagnosis. The coder is cautioned to exactly code only the narrative provided by the physician in the final diagnosis and not make any further assumptions based on the patient work-up. For example, in coding depression, careful use of the ICD-9-CM index directs the coder to the correct type documented. If the physician does not document specific descriptor terms such as “major” or “recurrent”, then code 311 (depression, not otherwise specified, not in the model) is used.

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Clinical Specificity in Documentation

• Use of “history of.” In ICD-9-CM, “history of” means the patient no longer has the condition and the diagnosis often indexes to a V code not in the HCC models. A physician can make errors in one of two ways with respect to these codes. One error is to code a past condition as active. The opposite error is to code as “history of” a condition when that condition is still active. Both of these errors can impact risk adjustment.

Example: 1

The diagnosis statement “history of hip fracture” is not coded as a current hip fracture (820.8, HCC 158),but with a V code for orthopedic aftercare (V54.XX) or history of injury (V15.5), if appropriate. Neither“history of” code is in the HCC models. If a patient has a current acute condition, then the “history of”wording should not be used to describe the recent occurrence. Example: 2

The physician may actually intend to communicate that a condition is ongoing, but note the “history of” acondition. An example of this is “history of Hepatitis C” (V12.09 personal history of other infectiousdisease). Hepatitis C generally presents as a chronic condition (070.54, HCC 27) that is rarely fullyeradicated. While assigning V12.09 is not necessarily an example of incorrect coding, it may indicate thatthe physician office is not coding correctly. Again, communication and clear documentation are essentialto make the appropriate determination.

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Clinical Specificity in Documentation

Correct use of associated terms:• Some conditions are described by more than one term depending on the clinical

presentation and medical terminology practices of the physician. Coders must be careful not to assign a diagnosis to conditions that are not specified by the physician and cannot be validated by the medical record.

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DOCUMENTATION CONSIDERATIONSDocumentation Guidelines • Reported diagnoses must be supported with medical record documentation.• Medical records and codes are subject to CMS validation.• Characteristics of acceptable documentation include:

– Clear.– Concise.– Consistent.– Complete.– Legible.

Physician Documentation and Communication Tips • Document and report co-existing diagnoses. • Communicate issues regarding inadequate documentation.• Adhere to proper methods for appending (late entries) or correcting inaccurate data entries.

– Lab/Radiology results.– Strike through, initial, and date. Do not obliterate.

• Use only standard abbreviations.• Identify patient and date on each page of the record. SOAP Notes• SOAP note format assists both the physician and record reviewer/coder in identifying key • documentation elements. SOAP stands for:

– Subjective: How the patients describe their problem or illness.– Objective: Data obtained from examinations, lab results, vital signs, etc.– Assessment: Listing of the patient’s current condition and status of all chronic conditions. How the objective data

relate to the patient’s acute problem.– Plan: Next steps in diagnosing problem further, prescriptions, consultation referrals, patient education, and

recommended time to return for follow up.

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Valid Documents• Physicians• Outpatient Consults• Colonoscopy• Operative Reports• Interventional Radiology - Cardiac Catheterization• IVC Filter Placement• Pacemaker Insertion• Emergency department Visits(always coded separately from inpatient visit).• Discharge summary – Admit date and discharge date – If discharge date is not present at the discharge

summary it should be present at the same visit any type of document consider as valid (We can capture Discharge date from Lab reports, X-ray, CT scan, etc.)

• If there is no discharge summary or discharge date, then break these and code as a separate line item and consider as a physician type of visit.

• Physical therapy(code only once per year for a single condition. If PT was given for a different condition during the same year, code that DOS also.)

• Occupational Therapy(similar to that of PT visit).• House Call (as long as this is face to face encounter between patient and physician)• Home visit (as long as this is face to face encounter between patient and physician)

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Invalid Documents• RN• Nurse visit• MS• MA• LPN• Admit H&P (if not coding diagnosis from discharge summary). • Intern notes• PT INR(Coumadin Visit)• INR• Hospice• Home Health Care Records• Telephone encounters• SNF• Vaccine or injection visit• Dr (Doctor is not a valid credential)• RN, Nurse visit, MS, MA, LPN, intern notes, House surgeons – If face to face encounter visit is in complete

format with the signature of the above mentioned unapproved provider but co-signed by the approved provider, then we can code from such visits considering it as a valid document.

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Medical Record Issues1. Provider signature missing – Code dx and select the issue2. Provider signature does not meet CMS guidelines/credential missing–

Code dx and select the issue3. Illegible Notes – Do not code, select the appropriate issue4. Missing Face to Face Encounter - Do not code, select the appropriate

issue5. No Chronic Conditions to Code (HCC dx) - Do not code, select the

appropriate issue6. Patient Name Missing - Do not code, select the appropriate issue7. Mixed Patient Record - Do not code, select the appropriate issue8. Wrong Patient/Chart - Do not code, select the appropriate issue9. Incomplete Documentation - Do not code, select the appropriate issue10. Invalid Year for coding - Do not code, select the appropriate issue

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Significant Changes to the 2014 Risk Adjustment Model

HCC changes:

• The new 2014 model has significant changes to HCCs when compared to the prior model. These changes include potential negative impacts around HCCs related to Chronic Kidney Disorder (CKD) and Diabetes potentially offset by additions to the neurological metabolic areas. Please note that actual impact of the new model will vary based on member mix on an individual plan basis. Overall, the 2014 model has 79 HCCs compared to 70 in the prior model. Below is a quick summary of some of those changes (red = deleted, green = added, yellow = major change):

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Significant Changes to the 2014 Risk Adjustment Model

Example:

Acute Chronic ICD9 ICD-9-CM Description

2013 Payment

HCC

ICD-9-CM Description

2014 Payment

HCC

ICD-9-CM Description

2013 Payment

RxHCC

2014 Payment

RxHCC

AC 0031 Salmonella septicemia HCC2 Salmonella

septicemia HCC2

A 00322 Salmonella pneumonia HCC112 Salmonella

pneumonia HCC115

A 00323 Salmonella arthritis HCC37 Salmonella

arthritis HCC39

AC 00324 Salmonella osteomyelitis HCC37 Salmonella

osteomyelitis HCC39

AC 0064 Amebic lung abscess HCC112 Amebic lung

abscess HCC115 Amebic lung abscess RxHCC 106 RxHCC 106

AC 0074 Cryptosporidiosis HCC5 Cryptosporidi

osis HCC6 Cryptosporidiosis RxHCC 5 RxHCC 5

A 0202 Septicemic plague HCC2 Septicemic

plague HCC2

A 0203Primary pneumonic plague

HCC112Primary pneumonic plague

HCC115

A 0204Secondary pneumon plague

HCC112Secondary pneumon plague

HCC115

A 0205 Pneumonic plague NOS HCC112 Pneumonic

plague NOS HCC115