Debra,
I do agree with you that the guideline states the word with should be associated with due to, however that is in reference to the code title, not when it appears in the medical record, which is where I was referring to.
This seems to be a major disconnect between the providers and the coders, since the wording of the descriptor states "with" and we are asking for "due to" or "diabetic"; the providers' response is, well that is what the code states.
As far as AHA coding guidelines goes, the only reference I have found is the statement that you can use the casual relationship between DM and Neuropathy even if it isn't stated as due to or diabetic, this is the same casual relationship that is used with CKD and Htn.
If you know of any other documented statements that clarify this issue I would love to have them, it would make my education and coding staff's work a lot easier.
Thanks,
Carl