OASIS Alert
Consider Carefully Before Putting ICD-9 Code 344.61 In M0230
If you don't have documentation to support case mix code 344.61, expect a denial, one RHHI says. Cauda Equina Syndrome with Neurogenic Bladder (344.61) is one of the case mix codes that increases the home health resource group and in turn leads to extra episode reimbursement. But if you choose that code for the primary diagnosis in M0230, be ready to submit documentation that the neurogenic bladder is in fact due to the Cauda Equina Syndrome, regional home health intermediary Palmetto GBA instructs in its February 2004 Part A Advisory. The RHHI says Cauda Equina Syndrome is caused by any narrowing of the spinal canal that compresses the nerve roots below the level of the spinal cord. These causes can include traumatic injury, disk herniation, spinal stenosis, spinal neoplasm, ependymomas, inflammatory conditions, infectious conditions and iatrogenic causes.
OASIS Alert
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Consider Carefully Before Putting ICD-9 Code 344.61 In M0230
If you don't have documentation to support case mix code 344.61, expect a denial, one [...]
