Advanced Search

Neurology & Pain Management Coding Alert

Watch for Frequent Signs and Symptoms

Published on Wed Nov 26, 2008

Neurology highlights: Signs and symptoms you might encounter more frequently in a neurology practice include numbness or tingling (782.0), headache (784.0), muscle incoordination (781.3), tremor or spasm (781.0), muscle weakness (728.87), cognitive changes (294.9), visual changes (368.9), abnormal gait (781.2), and difficulty walking (719.7). Keep an eye out for these symptoms when your neurologist offers no definitive diagnosis. Example: During an initial consult with a new patient, your neurologist suspects a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease (332). How should you report this? Answer: Until testing or diagnostic services confirm that diagnosis, you should rely on signs and symptoms (such as tremor: 781.0, Abnormal involuntary movements) to justify medical necessity for any services the physician provides.
You’ve reached your limit of free articles. Already a subscriber? Log in.
Not a subscriber? Subscribe today to continue reading this article. Plus, you’ll get:
  • Simple explanations of current healthcare regulations and payer programs
  • Real-world reporting scenarios solved by our expert coders
  • Industry news, such as MAC and RAC activities, the OIG Work Plan, and CERT reports
  • Instant access to every article ever published in your eNewsletter
  • 6 annual AAPC-approved CEUs*
  • The latest updates for CPT®, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS Level II, NCCI edits, modifiers, compliance, technology, practice management, and more
*CEUs available with select eNewsletters.

Other Articles in this issue of

Neurology & Pain Management Coding Alert

View All