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ICD-10 Coding for Heart Failure with Mildly Reduced Ejection Fraction(I50.21)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Heart Failure with Mildly Reduced Ejection Fraction. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

HFmrEFMid-range Ejection Fraction Heart Failure

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Heart Failure with Mildly Reduced Ejection Fraction

I50.2-I50.23Primary Range

Heart failure codes, specifically for systolic heart failure

This range includes codes for systolic heart failure, which is the classification used for HFmrEF.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for HFmrEF

Essential facts and insights about Heart Failure with Mildly Reduced Ejection Fraction

The ICD-10 code for HFmrEF is I50.21, used for chronic systolic heart failure with an EF of 40-49%.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for hfmref

Chronic systolic heart failure
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • EF between 40-49% with symptoms of heart failure

documentation Criteria

  • Explicit mention of HFmrEF or mid-range EF

Applicable To

  • Heart failure with mildly reduced ejection fraction

Excludes

  • Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (I50.3)
  • Heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (I50.22)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Echocardiogram showing EF 40-49%
  • Symptoms such as dyspnea or fatigue
  • Structural heart disease evidence

Code-Specific Risks

  • Confusion with HFpEF or HFrEF due to similar symptoms
  • Incorrect coding without specific EF documentation

Coding Notes

  • Ensure EF percentage is documented and falls within the 40-49% range for accurate coding.

Ancillary Codes

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

Fluid overload

E87.70
Use when there is evidence of volume overload in the patient.

Presence of automatic (implantable) cardiac defibrillator

Z95.810
Use if the patient has an ICD.

Differential Codes

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

Chronic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction

I50.22
EF less than 40%

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction

I50.3
EF 50% or greater

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Heart Failure with Mildly Reduced Ejection Fraction to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code I50.21.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to incorrect treatment plans., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for reduced reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Standardize EF documentation in heart failure notes, Educate providers on importance of EF in coding

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to lower reimbursement if coded as unspecified., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines for specificity., Data Quality: Decreases the accuracy of clinical data.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure EF is documented and use I50.21 for HFmrEF.

Impact

Lack of EF documentation can lead to audit flags.

Mitigation Strategy

Implement mandatory EF documentation protocols.

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 Heart Failure with Mildly Reduced Ejection Fraction, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Heart Failure with Mildly Reduced Ejection Fraction

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Heart Failure with Mildly Reduced Ejection Fraction. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Chronic HFmrEF management

Specialty: Cardiology

Required Elements

  • EF percentage
  • NYHA classification
  • Volume status

Example Documentation

Patient presents with decompensated HFmrEF, EF 45% on recent echocardiogram.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Heart failure exacerbation
Good Documentation Example
Decompensated HFmrEF, EF 45% on 3/15/25 echo, NYHA Class III
Explanation
The good example provides specific EF and classification details, improving coding accuracy.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Heart Failure with Mildly Reduced Ejection Fraction? Ask your questions below.

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