ICD-10 Coding for Left Finger Pain(M79.645)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Left Finger Pain. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Left Finger Pain
M79.64-M79.645Primary Range
Other specified soft tissue disorders, not elsewhere classified
This range includes codes for pain in specific fingers, with M79.645 being specific to the left finger(s).
Injuries to the wrist, hand and fingers
This range includes injury codes that may be relevant if the pain is due to trauma.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for left finger pain
Essential facts and insights about Left Finger Pain
Primary ICD-10-CM Code for left finger pain
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Pain localized to left finger(s) without confirmed etiology.
coding Criteria
- Use M79.645 for left finger pain when no specific condition is diagnosed.
Applicable To
- Localized pain in left finger(s)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documented localized pain in left finger(s)
- Absence of confirmed etiology
Code-Specific Risks
- Risk of using unspecified codes when laterality is known.
Coding Notes
- Ensure laterality is specified and avoid unspecified codes.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Left Finger Pain to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M79.645.
Impact
Clinical: Leads to inaccurate clinical records., Regulatory: May result in compliance issues., Financial: Can affect reimbursement rates.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document the specific finger and side.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to reduced reimbursement., Compliance: May trigger audits due to lack of specificity., Data Quality: Affects the accuracy of clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Always specify laterality by using M79.645 for left finger pain.
Impact
Failure to document laterality can lead to audit findings.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement checks to ensure laterality is documented.
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 Left Finger Pain, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Left Finger Pain
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Left Finger Pain. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Primary Care Visit for Left Finger Pain
Specialty: Primary CareRequired Elements
- Subjective pain description
- Objective findings
- Assessment and plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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