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ICD-10 Coding for Breast Screening(Z12.31, Z80.3, R92.2)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Breast Screening. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Mammogram ScreeningBreast Cancer Screening

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Breast Screening

Z12.31Primary Range

Encounter for screening mammogram for malignant neoplasm of breast

Primary code for routine breast cancer screening in asymptomatic patients.

Family history of malignant neoplasm of breast

Used as an ancillary code to indicate family history of breast cancer.

Inconclusive mammogram

Used when mammogram results are inconclusive due to dense breast tissue.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
Z12.31Encounter for screening mammogram for malignant neoplasm of breastUse for routine breast cancer screening in asymptomatic patients.
  • Patient is asymptomatic
  • Order specifies 'screening mammogram'
Z80.3Family history of malignant neoplasm of breastUse as a secondary code when family history is documented.
  • Documented family history of breast cancer
R92.2Inconclusive mammogramUse when mammogram results are inconclusive due to dense breast tissue.
  • Radiologist report indicates dense breast tissue

Clinical Decision Support

Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for breast screening

Essential facts and insights about Breast Screening

The ICD-10 code for breast screening is Z12.31, used for routine screening mammograms in asymptomatic patients.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for breast screening

Encounter for screening mammogram for malignant neoplasm of breast
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Patient must be asymptomatic for screening code use.

documentation Criteria

  • Order must specify 'screening mammogram'.

Applicable To

  • Routine screening mammogram

Excludes

  • Diagnostic mammogram

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Patient is asymptomatic
  • Order specifies 'screening mammogram'

Code-Specific Risks

  • Using for diagnostic mammograms

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies 'screening' to avoid denials.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Family history of malignant neoplasm of breast

Z80.3
Use when there is a documented family history of breast cancer.

Inconclusive mammogram

R92.2
Use when mammogram results are inconclusive due to dense breast tissue.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Mammographic calcifications requiring follow-up

R92.1
Use when calcifications are present and require follow-up.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Breast Screening to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code Z12.31.

Impact

Clinical: Missed risk stratification for breast cancer., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Financial: Potential loss of risk adjustment factor.

Mitigation Strategy

Always document family history during patient intake.

Impact

Reimbursement: Claims may be denied if incorrect code is used., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate data on screening vs. diagnostic procedures.

Mitigation Strategy

Use appropriate diagnostic codes based on findings.

Impact

Incorrect use of screening codes for diagnostic procedures.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure orders specify 'screening' and verify patient symptoms.

Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Breast Screening, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Breast Screening

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Breast Screening. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Routine Screening Mammogram

Specialty: Radiology

Required Elements

  • Indication for screening
  • Family history
  • Radiologist findings

Example Documentation

Patient presents for routine screening mammogram. Family history of breast cancer in mother. Radiologist notes dense breast tissue.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Mammogram done.
Good Documentation Example
Screening mammogram for 48F with family history of breast cancer (mother dx 52). BI-RADS 0: Dense tissue limits evaluation. Recommend ultrasound.
Explanation
The good example specifies the screening nature, family history, and radiologist findings, which are critical for accurate coding.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Breast Screening? Ask your questions below.

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