Help with "rule out" ICD 9 codes

[TamaraM]

in response to: "If the signs and symptoms are "rule out hydronephrosis" and the findings are for ascites, can I code the ascite or would I need to get the actual signs/symptoms?"


I would code primarily what test was order for-- if r/o hydronephrosis & and test is neg. then code the symptoms-- then code unrelated findings. If the finding is related to the reason the test was ordered, then the finding can be the primary dx code.

[norrisnab1]

What code would you use for r/o dvt?

[cordelia]

Do they have edema? swelling? pain?

[mitchellde]

What code would you use for r/o dvt?

You must code the presenting symptoms. You cannot code a rule out diagnosis unless you are a facility coder coding for inpatient.

[donnajrichmond]

What code would you use for r/o dvt?

As they've said if you are billing for a physician you must go back and look for/ask for the symptoms - what prompted the doctor to think there might be DVT?
Uncertain diagnoses cannot be coded for physician or out-patient hospital claims- this includes r/o, consistent with, compatible with, possible, differential, suggests, etc.