I need to code an acute refractory migraine headache and am unsure about the 5th digit. The word "intractable" occurs nowhere in the patient record so I tend to believe I can code only 346.90, despite the refractory diagnosis. Would appreciate hearing from someone who knows for sure. Thank you.
-
If this is your first visit, be sure to check out the FAQ & read the forum rules. To view all forums, post or create a new thread, you must be an AAPC Member. If you are a member and have already registered for member area and forum access, you can log in by clicking here. If you've forgotten the password it can be reset on our sign in section by entering your registered Email Address or Username here. To start viewing messages, select the forum that you want to visit from the selection below..
Wiki Refractory migraine
- Thread starter buckeye56
- Start date
moore509
Guest
My opinion is to use the 5th digit 1 because "refractory" is mentioned. Also, because you don't mention a time frame and say "acute", it is not status migrainosus (lasting 72 hours). Just my interpretation.