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ICD-10 Coding for Obesity Hypoventilation Syndrome(E66.2)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Obesity Hypoventilation Syndrome. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Pickwickian SyndromeOHS

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Obesity Hypoventilation Syndrome

E66-E68Primary Range

Overweight, obesity and other hyperalimentation

This range includes codes for obesity-related conditions, including obesity hypoventilation syndrome.

Sleep disorders

This range includes codes for sleep disorders, such as obstructive sleep apnea, which can be comorbid with OHS.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for obesity hypoventilation syndrome

Essential facts and insights about Obesity Hypoventilation Syndrome

The ICD-10 code for obesity hypoventilation syndrome is E66.2, which includes morbid obesity with alveolar hypoventilation.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for obesity hypoventilation syndrome

Morbid (severe) obesity with alveolar hypoventilation
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • BMI ≥30 with PaCO₂ >45 mmHg

documentation Criteria

  • Explicit mention of 'morbid obesity with alveolar hypoventilation'

Applicable To

  • Obesity hypoventilation syndrome

Excludes

  • Obesity due to excess calories (E66.01)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • BMI ≥30
  • PaCO₂ >45 mmHg while awake
  • Sleep study showing sleep-disordered breathing

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misuse when 'morbid obesity' is not documented despite high BMI.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation explicitly links obesity to hypoventilation.

Ancillary Codes

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

Body mass index (BMI) 40.0-44.9, adult

Z68.41
Use to specify BMI when coding for obesity hypoventilation syndrome.

Obstructive sleep apnea (adult) (pediatric)

G47.33
Use when OSA is comorbid with OHS.

Differential Codes

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

Morbid obesity due to excess calories

E66.01
Use E66.01 when hypoventilation is not present.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Obesity Hypoventilation Syndrome to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code E66.2.

Impact

Clinical: Misrepresentation of patient's condition severity., Regulatory: Potential audit failure., Financial: Loss of appropriate reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Educate providers on documentation requirements., Implement documentation checklists.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment leading to potential underpayment., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation specifies 'morbid obesity with alveolar hypoventilation'.

Impact

Inadequate documentation of 'morbid obesity' despite high BMI.

Mitigation Strategy

Regular audits and provider education.

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 Obesity Hypoventilation Syndrome, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Obesity Hypoventilation Syndrome

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Obesity Hypoventilation Syndrome. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Pulmonary evaluation for suspected OHS

Specialty: Pulmonology

Required Elements

  • BMI
  • ABG results
  • Sleep study findings
  • Symptoms

Example Documentation

Patient with BMI 44.2 presents with fatigue, morning headaches, and PaCO₂ 49 mmHg on ABG. Polysomnography confirms severe OSA (AHI 38). Diagnosis: Obesity hypoventilation syndrome with comorbid OSA.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Obese patient with sleep issues.
Good Documentation Example
BMI 42.3, PaCO₂ 48 mmHg on room air, polysomnography shows AHI 42. Diagnosis: Obesity hypoventilation syndrome (E66.2) with severe OSA (G47.33).
Explanation
The good example provides specific clinical data and links obesity to hypoventilation.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Obesity Hypoventilation Syndrome? Ask your questions below.

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