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ICD-10 Coding for Hypertension Unspecified(I10)

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

Also known as:

Essential HypertensionPrimary HypertensionHigh Blood Pressure

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Hypertension Unspecified

I10-I16Primary Range

Hypertensive diseases

This range includes all hypertensive diseases, with I10 specifically for essential (primary) hypertension without complications.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for hypertension unspecified

Essential facts and insights about Hypertension Unspecified

The ICD-10 code for hypertension unspecified is I10, used for essential hypertension without specified cause or complications.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for hypertension unspecified

Essential (primary) hypertension
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Diagnosis of hypertension without specified complications

documentation Criteria

  • Provider documentation explicitly states 'essential hypertension'

Applicable To

  • Hypertension without specified cause or complications

Excludes

  • Hypertensive heart disease (I11.-)
  • Hypertensive chronic kidney disease (I12.-)
  • Secondary hypertension (I15.-)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • ≥2 BP readings ≥130/80 mmHg on separate days
  • Absence of renal or cardiac complications

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misuse when complications are present but not documented

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation explicitly states 'hypertension' and not just elevated BP readings.

Ancillary Codes

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

Elevated blood pressure reading, without diagnosis of hypertension

R03.0
Use for single elevated BP readings without a formal hypertension diagnosis.

Differential Codes

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

Hypertensive heart disease

I11
Use when hypertension is documented with heart disease.

Hypertensive chronic kidney disease

I12
Use when hypertension is documented with chronic kidney disease.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Hypertension Unspecified to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code I10.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to mismanagement of the condition., Regulatory: Non-compliance with ICD-10 documentation standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims due to lack of diagnosis.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure provider documents 'hypertension' explicitly., Use templates that prompt for diagnosis.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to lower reimbursement rates., Compliance: May result in non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Affects the accuracy of patient health records.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure provider documents any heart or kidney complications linked to hypertension.

Impact

Risk of incorrect coding when complications are not documented.

Mitigation Strategy

Regular training on documentation requirements for hypertension.

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 Hypertension Unspecified, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Hypertension Unspecified

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

Routine hypertension management

Specialty: Primary Care

Required Elements

  • Patient history of hypertension
  • Current BP readings
  • Medication regimen
  • Plan for follow-up

Example Documentation

55yo M with 5-year history of untreated hypertension, presents for routine management. BP 148/92. Plan: Start hydrochlorothiazide 25mg daily.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient has high blood pressure.
Good Documentation Example
Patient diagnosed with essential hypertension, BP 148/92.
Explanation
The good example specifies the diagnosis and provides BP readings.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Hypertension Unspecified? Ask your questions below.

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