Back to HomeBeta

ICD-10 Coding for Vertigo Not Otherwise Specified(R42)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Vertigo Not Otherwise Specified. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Dizziness NOSUnspecified Vertigo

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Vertigo Not Otherwise Specified

R42Primary Range

Dizziness and giddiness

Used when vertigo is present without a specific identifiable cause.

Disorders of vestibular function

Used for specific vestibular disorders when a cause is identified.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for vertigo not otherwise specified

Essential facts and insights about Vertigo Not Otherwise Specified

The ICD-10 code for vertigo not otherwise specified is R42, used when vertigo is present without a specific identifiable cause.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for vertigo not otherwise specified

Dizziness and giddiness
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Negative results on vestibular and neurologic tests

documentation Criteria

  • Explicit mention of 'no identifiable cause' in medical records

Applicable To

  • Vertigo NOS

Excludes

  • Benign paroxysmal vertigo (H81.1)
  • Meniere's disease (H81.0)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Negative vestibular and neurologic testing
  • No identifiable cause after workup

Code-Specific Risks

  • Overuse when specific cause is documented
  • Incorrect sequencing with other primary conditions

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation clearly states 'no identifiable cause' for vertigo.

Ancillary Codes

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

Hearing exam

Z01.10
Use if audiometry is performed.

Syncope

R55
Use if presyncopal dizziness is present.

Differential Codes

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

Aural vertigo

H81.3
Use when vertigo is linked to ear pathology without meeting criteria for Meniere's or BPPV.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Vertigo Not Otherwise Specified to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R42.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment plans., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Financial: Potential for incorrect reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure comprehensive workup is documented., Verify negative results for specific vestibular disorders.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to lower reimbursement if not sequenced correctly., Compliance: Could result in compliance issues with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Affects the accuracy of clinical data.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure R42 is sequenced after any identified primary condition causing vertigo.

Impact

R42 used as primary when a specific cause is identified.

Mitigation Strategy

Review documentation for specific causes before coding.

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 Vertigo Not Otherwise Specified, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Vertigo Not Otherwise Specified

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Vertigo Not Otherwise Specified. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Emergency Department Note

Specialty: Emergency Medicine

Required Elements

  • Symptom duration
  • Triggers
  • Associated symptoms
  • Test results

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Pt c/o dizziness - ? cause
Good Documentation Example
45F with 3 episodes of rotational vertigo lasting 2-5 mins without positional triggers. Negative Romberg/Fukuda-Unterberger. Normal HINTS exam. MRI negative for stroke. Final Dx: Vertigo NOS (R42).
Explanation
The good example provides detailed symptom description and test results, supporting the use of R42.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Vertigo Not Otherwise Specified? Ask your questions below.

Ask about any ICD-10 CM code, or paste a medical note

We build tools for
clinician happiness.

Learn More at Freed.ai
Back to HomeBeta

Built by Freed

Try Freed for free for 7 days.

Learn more