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Z13.22
ICD-10-CM
Thyroid Screening

Find information on thyroid screening, including TSH tests, thyroid ultrasound, and fine needle aspiration biopsy. Learn about relevant medical coding (ICD-10 codes for thyroid disorders like hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism) and clinical documentation requirements for accurate diagnosis and billing. Explore resources for healthcare professionals on thyroid function tests, thyroid nodules, goiter, and thyroid cancer screening. Understand the importance of early detection and proper management of thyroid conditions.

Also known as

Thyroid Function Test
Thyroid Panel

Diagnosis Snapshot

Key Facts
  • Definition : Evaluation of thyroid gland function to detect overactivity (hyperthyroidism) or underactivity (hypothyroidism).
  • Clinical Signs : Fatigue, weight changes, mood swings, temperature sensitivity, changes in bowel habits, irregular heart rate.
  • Common Settings : Primary care clinics, endocrinology offices, hospitals (for severe cases or complications).

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to AAPC Z13.22 Coding
Z13.8

Encounter for screening for oth. dis

Screening for diseases other than endocrine.

E00-E89

Endocrine, nutritional, metabolic

Covers endocrine disorders like thyroid issues.

Z00-Z99

Factors influencing health status

Includes general health examinations and screenings.

Code-Specific Guidance

Decision Tree for

Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.

Is the screening due to personal/family history or other high risk?

Code Comparison

Related Codes Comparison

When to use each related code

Description
Thyroid Screening
Hypothyroidism
Hyperthyroidism

Documentation Best Practices

Documentation Checklist
  • Thyroid screening rationale (e.g., family history, symptoms)
  • TSH level (e.g., numeric value and units)
  • T3 and T4 levels (if ordered)
  • Palpation findings (normal or abnormal)
  • Assessment and plan (e.g., next steps, referrals)

Coding and Audit Risks

Common Risks
  • Unspecified Screening

    Coding with unspecified screening codes (e.g., Z13.89) when more specific thyroid screening diagnosis codes are applicable, leading to inaccurate risk adjustment.

  • Missed Family History

    Failing to capture and code relevant family history of thyroid disease (e.g., Z83.4) which impacts risk adjustment and care management.

  • Incident-to-Screening

    Incorrectly coding screening encounters as incident-to when they should be billed under the ordering physician, resulting in compliance violations.

Mitigation Tips

Best Practices
  • Document TSH reflex to T3/T4 testing for appropriate ICD-10-CM coding.
  • Ensure proper CPT coding for thyroid ultrasound based on documented medical necessity.
  • For hypothyroidism diagnoses, specify type/cause to optimize CDI & HCC coding.
  • Clearly document thyroid nodule characteristics for accurate FNA coding and compliance.
  • Regularly audit thyroid screening documentation for coding accuracy and compliance.

Clinical Decision Support

Checklist
  • Verify patient age and risk factors (family history, autoimmune disease)
  • Review medications impacting thyroid function (amiodarone, lithium)
  • Order TSH and free T4 tests with appropriate ICD-10 codes (E03.9, R94.8)
  • Document symptoms, physical exam findings (goiter, tremor)
  • Assess for contraindications to testing (acute illness)

Reimbursement and Quality Metrics

Impact Summary
  • Thyroid Screening Reimbursement: CPT codes 80004, 80053 impact payment. Coding accuracy crucial for maximizing reimbursement.
  • Quality Metrics Impact: HEDIS measures track thyroid screening rates in specific populations. Accurate coding affects hospital quality reporting.
  • Denial Management: Incorrect diagnosis codes (e.g., E03.9, E06.9) can lead to claim denials. Proper coding ensures timely reimbursement.
  • HCC Coding: Risk adjustment coding (HCCs) for thyroid conditions like hypothyroidism (E03.9) impacts RAF scores and future reimbursements.

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
  • Document TSH, T3, T4 levels
  • Code thyroid ultrasound with indication
  • Specify 'screening' for asymptomatic patients
  • ICD-10 Z13.8 for routine thyroid check
  • Distinguish hypo/hyperthyroidism diagnosis

Documentation Templates

Patient presented for thyroid screening due to family history of hypothyroidism and symptoms suggestive of thyroid dysfunction, including fatigue, weight gain, and constipation.  Patient reports increased sensitivity to cold and dry skin.  Physical examination revealed no palpable thyroid nodules or goiter.  Vital signs were within normal limits.  Assessment includes thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) blood test ordered to evaluate thyroid function and screen for hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.  Differential diagnoses include subclinical hypothyroidism, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, and iodine deficiency.  Plan includes review of TSH results and correlation with patient symptoms.  If TSH is abnormal, further evaluation with free T4 and thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPO antibodies) will be considered. Patient education provided on thyroid disorders, including signs and symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options.  Follow-up appointment scheduled to discuss results and determine appropriate management plan, which may include thyroid hormone replacement therapy if indicated.  Medical coding may include ICD-10 codes for screening for thyroid disorders (Z13.89) and related symptoms, such as fatigue (R53.83) and constipation (R19.4).  Billing codes will reflect the evaluation and management (E/M) services provided, along with laboratory testing for TSH.