ICD-10 Coding for Renal Disease(N18.1, N18.6)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Renal Disease. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Renal Disease
N18.1-N18.6Primary Range
Chronic kidney disease stages 1-5 and end stage renal disease
This range covers all stages of chronic kidney disease, which is the primary focus for renal disease coding.
Hypertensive chronic kidney disease
This range is used when chronic kidney disease is caused by hypertension.
Diabetes mellitus with chronic kidney disease
This range is used when chronic kidney disease is a complication of diabetes.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| N18.1 | Chronic kidney disease, stage 1 | Use when GFR is 90 or greater with evidence of kidney damage. |
|
| N18.6 | End stage renal disease | Use when the patient has ESRD and is dependent on dialysis. |
|
Clinical Decision Support
Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for renal disease
Essential facts and insights about Renal Disease
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for renal disease
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- GFR 90 or greater with persistent albuminuria
Applicable To
- GFR 90 or greater
Excludes
- Acute kidney failure (N17.-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- GFR 90 or greater
- Persistent albuminuria
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification if GFR is not accurately measured.
Coding Notes
- Ensure accurate GFR measurement and documentation of kidney damage.
N18.6 - End stage renal disease
Use when the patient has ESRD and is dependent on dialysis.
Applicable To
- Chronic kidney disease requiring dialysis
Excludes
- Acute kidney failure (N17.-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- GFR less than 15
- Dialysis dependency
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation of dialysis dependency.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Renal Disease to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code N18.1.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document the underlying cause of CKD.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to lower reimbursement rates., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Reduces the accuracy of patient records.
Mitigation Strategy
Always use the specific stage code when GFR and stage are documented.
Impact
Inaccurate staging can lead to audit findings.
Mitigation Strategy
Regularly review GFR documentation.
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 Renal Disease, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Renal Disease
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Renal Disease. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Chronic Kidney Disease Management
Specialty: NephrologyRequired Elements
- Etiology of CKD
- Stage and GFR
- Treatment plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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