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Z13.820
ICD-10-CM
Peripheral DEXA Scan

Find information on Peripheral DEXA Scan diagnosis, including ICD-10 codes, medical coding guidelines, and clinical documentation requirements. Learn about healthcare procedures related to bone density testing, osteoporosis screening, and fracture risk assessment. This resource provides details on Peripheral DEXA Scan interpretation, Z-scores, T-scores, and best practices for accurate medical record keeping. Explore relevant information for physicians, healthcare providers, and medical coders.

Also known as

Peripheral DXA
Appendicular Skeleton Bone Density Test

Diagnosis Snapshot

Key Facts
  • Definition : Measures bone mineral density at peripheral sites (e.g., heel, forearm) to assess fracture risk.
  • Clinical Signs : Osteoporosis, osteopenia, history of fractures, low body weight.
  • Common Settings : Doctors offices, hospitals, outpatient clinics, mobile units.

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to AAPC Z13.820 Coding
Z01-Z99

Factors influencing health status

Encounters for health screenings and checkups.

M80-M85

Disorders of bone density and structure

Includes osteoporosis and other bone density issues.

R00-R99

Symptoms, signs and abnormal clinical

Covers abnormal findings not classified elsewhere.

Code Comparison

Related Codes Comparison

When to use each related code

Description
Peripheral DEXA Scan
Osteoporosis
Osteopenia

Documentation Best Practices

Documentation Checklist
  • Peripheral DEXA scan documentation checklist
  • ICD-10-CM Z13.820 Bone density study
  • CPT 77080 Peripheral dual-energy absorptiometry
  • Document reason for exam (e.g., fracture risk)
  • Specify anatomical site scanned (e.g., forearm)
  • Report T-score and Z-score results

Coding and Audit Risks

Common Risks
  • Incorrect DEXA Code

    Using a code for axial DEXA instead of peripheral, leading to claim denials or inaccurate reimbursement.

  • Missing Laterality Code

    Failing to specify left, right, or bilateral for peripheral DEXA scans, causing claim rejection.

  • Medical Necessity Denial

    Lack of proper documentation supporting the medical necessity of the peripheral DEXA scan, resulting in denial.

Mitigation Tips

Best Practices
  • Document reason for p-DEXA, link to osteoporosis risk factors.
  • Code Z13.828 for osteoporosis screening, G89.2 for low bone density.
  • Ensure ICD-10 and CPT codes match medical necessity.
  • Query physician for clarity if documentation lacks specificity.
  • Regularly audit p-DEXA coding/documentation for compliance.

Clinical Decision Support

Checklist
  • Verify Z-score for age, sex, ethnicity matches patient.
  • Confirm laterality (left, right, or both) is documented.
  • Check diagnosis supports medical necessity for peripheral DEXA.
  • Ensure ICD-10 code aligns with scan indication (e.g., osteoporosis).
  • Document reason for scan and relevant clinical findings.

Reimbursement and Quality Metrics

Impact Summary
  • Peripheral DEXA Scan reimbursement hinges on accurate CPT coding (77080 for axial, 77081 for appendicular) and proper ICD-10 diagnosis coding for osteoporosis, fracture risk assessment, or other relevant conditions. This impacts claim denials and revenue cycle management.
  • Quality metrics impacted by Peripheral DEXA Scan reporting include osteoporosis screening rates, fracture risk assessment compliance, and appropriate follow-up care. Accurate coding ensures proper reflection in hospital quality reporting data.
  • Timely filing and appropriate modifier use (e.g., -LT, -RT) are crucial for maximizing Peripheral DEXA Scan reimbursement. Coding errors can lead to claim rejections and delays in payment.
  • DEXA scan coding accuracy directly influences hospital Value-Based Purchasing performance and overall reimbursement levels for osteoporosis-related care. Accurate data reporting is essential for demonstrating quality of care.

Streamline Your Medical Coding

Let S10.AI help you select the most accurate ICD-10 codes. Our AI-powered assistant ensures compliance and reduces coding errors.

Quick Tips

Practical Coding Tips
  • Verify DEXA laterality
  • Document osteoporosis diagnosis
  • Check 77080/77081 CPT
  • Correlate with FRAX score
  • Exclude spine/hip DEXA

Documentation Templates

Peripheral dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scan of the forearm, heel, or finger was performed to assess bone mineral density (BMD) and evaluate for osteoporosis, osteopenia, and fracture risk.  Patient presents with [indicate reason for scan, e.g., low-trauma fracture, family history of osteoporosis, advanced age, prolonged corticosteroid use, or as part of a routine health screening].  The scan results indicate a T-score of [insert T-score value] at the [specify site: distal radius, calcaneus, or finger].  Z-score was [insert Z-score value].  Based on the World Health Organization (WHO) criteria, the patient's BMD is classified as [normal, osteopenia, or osteoporosis].  This diagnosis was made in accordance with International Society for Clinical Densitometry (ISCD) guidelines.  The patient was counseled on the significance of the findings and provided with information on lifestyle modifications, including diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, weight-bearing exercise, and fall prevention strategies.  Further evaluation with a central DXA scan [may or may not be] recommended to assess BMD at the hip and lumbar spine.  Treatment options, including pharmacologic interventions such as bisphosphonates or other antiresorptive therapies, will be discussed with the patient at a follow-up appointment based on complete evaluation and risk factors. Medical coding will utilize appropriate ICD-10 codes for the diagnosis (e.g., M80.0, M81.0, Z13.820) and CPT codes for the procedure (e.g., 77080, 77081, 77082), ensuring accurate billing and reimbursement.
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