Wiki Coding for Diabetes with Opthalmic Manifestation

[diamondskylucy]

If you are coding a medical record for a patient that states, " Diabetes with opthalmic manifestations" but the record does not state what the manifestation is, do you code 250.5x by itself? If not, what manifestation code do you use? Would you not code the record and request further clarification instead? Any help is greatly appreciated!

 

[ajs]

You must query the provider for the manifestation code. The instructions under 250.5x in ICD-9 state "Use additional code to identify manifestation as; " and lists various categories of diabetic opthalmic manifestations. The provider's note must also indicate that the manifestation is "due to" diabetes. Once they choose the manifestation code be sure to check for any additional coding requirements under that code as well.