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ICD-10 Coding for Persistent Atrial Fibrillation(I48.19)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Persistent Atrial Fibrillation. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Chronic Atrial FibrillationLongstanding Persistent Atrial Fibrillationchronic persistent afiblongstanding persistent afib

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Persistent Atrial Fibrillation

I48.0-I48.9Primary Range

Atrial Fibrillation and Flutter

This range includes all types of atrial fibrillation and flutter, with specific codes for persistent atrial fibrillation.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for persistent atrial fibrillation

Essential facts and insights about Persistent Atrial Fibrillation

The ICD-10 code for persistent atrial fibrillation is I48.19, applicable when the condition lasts more than 7 days but less than 1 year.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for persistent atrial fibrillation

Other persistent atrial fibrillation
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Atrial fibrillation lasting more than 7 days

documentation Criteria

  • Explicit mention of 'persistent' without 'longstanding'

Applicable To

  • Persistent atrial fibrillation not specified as longstanding

Excludes

  • Chronic atrial fibrillation, unspecified (I48.20)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • ECG findings showing atrial fibrillation
  • Documentation of failed cardioversion attempts
  • Duration of atrial fibrillation more than 7 days

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly coding as I48.20 when persistent is specified

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies the duration and any cardioversion attempts.

Ancillary Codes

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

Presence of other cardiac implants and grafts

Z98.64
Use when documenting post-ablation status with persistent atrial fibrillation.

Differential Codes

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

Longstanding persistent atrial fibrillation

I48.11
Use when atrial fibrillation persists for more than 1 year and is documented as longstanding.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Persistent Atrial Fibrillation to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code I48.19.

Impact

Clinical: Leads to inappropriate treatment plans., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims.

Mitigation Strategy

Educate providers on specific terminology, Use templates to guide documentation

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to lower reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Use I48.19 when 'persistent' is documented.

Impact

Risk of audits due to non-specific documentation of atrial fibrillation.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation specifies type and duration of atrial fibrillation.

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 Persistent Atrial Fibrillation, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Persistent Atrial Fibrillation

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Persistent Atrial Fibrillation. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Cardiology Progress Note

Specialty: Cardiology

Required Elements

  • Duration of atrial fibrillation
  • Last cardioversion attempt
  • Current treatment plan

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Chronic AF managed with metoprolol.
Good Documentation Example
Persistent atrial fibrillation diagnosed 03/2024, maintained on apixaban and diltiazem. Last electrical cardioversion 02/2025 failed to maintain sinus rhythm.
Explanation
The good example specifies the duration, treatment, and cardioversion attempts, providing a complete clinical picture.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Persistent Atrial Fibrillation? Ask your questions below.

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