Pediatric Coding Alert

ICD-9 code overlap and unspecified code default slow claims processing. Do you assume that since the pediatrician is supposed to select the diagnoses, the coder can turn a blind eye to ICD-9 reporting? Think again: The coder can be involved in these capacities. Role 1: Check for Inherent, Nonincluded Dxs Coding is a team process, recommends Richard Tuck, MD, FAAP, pediatrician at PrimeCare of Southeastern Ohio in Zanesville. The physician must select the diagnosis and procedure code. The coding team ideally checks for appropriate coding for services, procedures, and diagnosis links. Catch: The coder must be able to decipher terms.Otherwise, she could green-light a claim suffering from ICD-9 code overlap. Example: A superbill has 81000 circled for U/A w/micro with diagnosis of headache (784.0), as well as dysuria (788.1). Should the claim contain both ICD-9 codes? The additional diagnosis of dysuria (788.1) is included, Tuck says. Dysuria, painful urination, is [...]