Learn about Unspecified Diabetes Mellitus, including clinical documentation requirements, ICD-10 code E149, and correct medical coding guidelines. This resource provides information for healthcare professionals on diagnosing and documenting diabetes with unspecified type, covering differential diagnosis, lab tests, and best practices for accurate medical records. Find guidance on diabetes mellitus unspecified type management and proper coding for optimal reimbursement.
Also known as
Diabetes mellitus
Covers all forms of diabetes mellitus without complications.
Hyperglycemia
Elevated blood sugar, often related to uncontrolled diabetes.
Diabetes mellitus due to
Diabetes caused by underlying conditions or disorders.
Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.
Is the type of diabetes known (Type 1, Type 2, etc.)?
Yes
Do NOT code as unspecified. Code the specific type of diabetes.
No
Is it documented as gestational diabetes?
When to use each related code
Description |
---|
Unspecified Diabetes |
Type 2 Diabetes |
Other Specified Diabetes Mellitus |
Coding E14.9 lacks specificity, impacting data accuracy for diabetes management, research, and reimbursement. CDI should clarify type.
Using E14.9 without documented diagnostic criteria risks inaccurate coding. Audits may flag this as unsupported diagnosis.
Unspecified diabetes may have complications (e.g., neuropathy) requiring specific codes. Missing these impacts risk adjustment and care planning.
Patient presents with signs and symptoms suggestive of diabetes mellitus, but the specific type (type 1, type 2, or other specific types) cannot be definitively determined at this time. Presenting complaints include polyuria, polydipsia, and unexplained weight loss. Fasting blood glucose levels are elevated, confirming hyperglycemia. However, further diagnostic testing, such as HbA1c, C-peptide levels, and autoantibody tests, is required to differentiate between type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus or other specific types. The patient denies any family history of diabetes. Review of systems is otherwise unremarkable. Assessment: Unspecified Diabetes Mellitus (ICD-10-CM code E14.9). Plan: Order HbA1c, C-peptide, and autoantibody panel. Initiate lifestyle modifications including dietary counseling focused on carbohydrate control and a moderate exercise program. Patient education provided regarding diabetes management, including blood glucose monitoring and potential medication needs. Follow-up appointment scheduled in two weeks to review lab results and determine appropriate diabetes management strategy. Differential diagnosis includes type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, gestational diabetes (if applicable), and other specific types of diabetes. Medical billing codes will be finalized upon confirmation of the specific diabetes type.