Wiki Chronic vs. Persistent A-Fib

[boo2unme]

is there any guidance on this. I have a provider that is documenting Chronic A-fib, but is coding Persistent. She says it means the same thing.... If it means the same, why are there two separate codes? What is the difference form a coding perspective? I have looked everywhere and cannot find guidance on this?

 

[cherene]

Chronic or persistent A-Fib

I would show her/him the two different codes in the ICD-10 book. The definition in the coding dictionary for Chronic: persistent, continuing or reoccurring.
I48.2 Chronic A-Fib (permanent A-Fib)
I would just explain that the correct code must match the documentation exactly and as a coder you are obligated and responsible for this.

Cherene