ICD 10 Coding Alert
Reader Question:
Find Options to Report Persistent Cough
Published on Thu Nov 02, 2023
Question: Our pediatrician documented that a patient had an “unexplained cough.” Do I need to query for more information? Nevada Subscriber Answer: Even though “unexplained cough” seems vague, there is no need to query the provider in this instance. Though you may not associate “unexplained” with “chronic,” take a look at the synonyms listed under R05.3 (Chronic cough) in the ICD-10-CM Tabular List: persistent cough, refractory cough, and unexplained cough. This means that if your physician documents that a patient has a persistent, refractory, or unexplained cough, report R05.3.
Related Articles
Other Articles in this issue of
ICD 10 Coding Alert
- Diagnosis Deep Dive:
Code Heart Attacks With Confidence
Plus, find out how to code the condition after it heals. Knowing how to code [...] - Condition Focus:
Become Familiar With Retinal Condition Diagnoses
Find out which details can lead to the most specific codes. Many conditions affect the [...] - Mythbusters:
Boost Your ENT Coding Prowess
Knowing the guidelines well will let you steer clear of misinformation. Coders who specialize in [...] - You Be The Coder:
Define OFF Episode
Question: Encounter notes indicate that the provider performed a level-three office evaluation and management (E/M) service [...] - Reader Question:
Find Correct Dementia Code for Vascular Version
Question: Encounter notes indicate that the provider treated a patient with mild vascular dementia with behavioral [...] - Reader Question:
Take Advantage of Opportunities to Educate Providers
Question: Our provider tends to use the terms “epigastric pain” and “heartburn” interchangeably. Sometimes, the notes [...] - Reader Question:
Find Options to Report Persistent Cough
Question: Our pediatrician documented that a patient had an “unexplained cough.” Do I need to query [...]
View All
