ICD-10 Coding for Elevated Hematocrit(D64.9, D65.9, R71.8)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Elevated Hematocrit. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Elevated Hematocrit
D64-D69Primary Range
Other disorders of blood and blood-forming organs
Includes codes for polycythemia vera and secondary polycythemia, which are common causes of elevated hematocrit.
Abnormal findings on examination of blood, without diagnosis
Includes codes for unspecified abnormalities of blood, such as elevated hematocrit without a known cause.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| D64.9 | Anemia, unspecified | Use when polycythemia vera is confirmed as the cause of elevated hematocrit. |
|
| D65.9 | Secondary polycythemia | Use when elevated hematocrit is due to secondary causes like COPD. |
|
| R71.8 | Other abnormality of red blood cells | Use when elevated hematocrit is present without a confirmed cause. |
|
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 elevated hematocrit
Essential facts and insights about Elevated Hematocrit
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for elevated hematocrit
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Confirmed JAK2 mutation and clinical symptoms of polycythemia vera.
Applicable To
- Polycythemia vera
Excludes
- Secondary polycythemia (D65.9)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- JAK2 mutation positive
- Splenomegaly
- Bone marrow biopsy showing hypercellularity
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrect use without JAK2 mutation confirmation
Coding Notes
- Ensure JAK2 mutation and other clinical indicators are documented.
D65.9 - Secondary polycythemia
Use when elevated hematocrit is due to secondary causes like COPD.
Applicable To
- Polycythemia due to chronic hypoxia
Excludes
- Polycythemia vera (D64.9)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Oxygen saturation <92%
- Presence of chronic hypoxia or COPD
Coding Notes
Document the underlying condition causing secondary polycythemia.
R71.8 - Other abnormality of red blood cells
Use when elevated hematocrit is present without a confirmed cause.
Applicable To
- Elevated hematocrit without specified cause
Excludes
- Polycythemia vera (D64.9)
- Secondary polycythemia (D65.9)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Elevated hematocrit with no identified cause after workup
Coding Notes
Use only when no specific cause is identified.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Other abnormality of red blood cells
R71.8Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Elevated Hematocrit to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code D64.9.
Impact
Clinical: Potential misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Denied claims due to insufficient documentation.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure JAK2 mutation testing is performed and documented., Review lab results before coding.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment leading to potential revenue loss., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data affecting patient care.
Mitigation Strategy
Use D64.9 for polycythemia vera or D65.9 for secondary causes.
Impact
Using R71.8 instead of a specific cause code.
Mitigation Strategy
Review clinical documentation to ensure specific cause is identified.
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 Elevated Hematocrit, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Elevated Hematocrit
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Elevated Hematocrit. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Polycythemia vera management
Specialty: HematologyRequired Elements
- JAK2 mutation status
- Hematocrit levels
- Bone marrow biopsy results
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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