Pulmonology Coding Alert

Question: I’ve just started coding for a pulmonary practice, and I’m having some trouble with coding for multiple pulmonary nodules. The providers and the other coder in the office have been using R91.8, but now I’ve been told that diagnosis code has been getting denied by payers.

What are the correct code(s)?

Illinois Subscriber

Answer: You should report ICD-10-CM code R91.8 (Other nonspecific abnormal finding of lung field) for multiple pulmonary nodules, if your pulmonologist has not made a definitive diagnosis. Some payers may not want you to use R91.8, but you must assign codes based on the physician’s documentation. If your pulmonologist states the presence of multiple pulmonary nodules in the op report, then you will use this applicable code regardless of whether the payer will deny service.