Regarded as the fifth leading cause of death and disability in the United States, stroke (also known as cerebrovascular accident or CVA) refers to a condition that occurs when the blood supply to one part of the brain is cut off. The condition is caused by the interruption of oxygen supply to the brain or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts. If left untreated, this serious, life-threatening condition can lead to severe brain damage and other related complications. Neurologists or other specialists who treat different types of stroke need to correctly document the same in the patient’s medical records. Outsourcing billing and coding tasks to a reliable neurology medical billing company can help ensure accurate claim submission.
Reports from the American Stroke Association (ASA) suggest that stroke is the fifth leading cause of death and disability in the United States. It is estimated that every year, more than 795,000 US people suffer a stroke. There are three different types of stroke, namely - ischemic stroke, hemorrhagic stroke and transient ischemic attacks (TIAs). Blockages in the artery and leaking or bursting of blood vessels are the main causes of stroke. In fact, the chances of this condition tend to be higher in overweight people, who have an inactive lifestyle. In addition, medical conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, obstructive sleep apnea, cholesterol and cardiovascular disease can also increase the risk of stroke. Incorporating healthy lifestyle habits along with medications can help prevent the condition.
ICD-10 Codes for Stroke
• I60 – Non-traumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage
• I61 – Non-traumatic intracerebral hemorrhage
• I62 – Other and unspecified non-traumatic intracranial hemorrhage
• I63 – Cerebral infarction
• I65 – Occlusion and stenosis of precerebral arteries, not resulting in cerebral infarction
• I66 – Occlusion and stenosis of cerebral arteries, not resulting in cerebral infarction
• I67 – Other cerebrovascular diseases
• I68 – Cerebrovascular disorders in diseases classified elsewhere
• I69 – Sequelae of cerebrovascular disease
Medical billing and coding for neurology disorders can be challenging. Correct clinical documentation of the causes, symptoms and procedures performed can ensure accuracy in coding and billing. Reliable medical billing companies can help physicians assign the right medical codes for this neurological disorder, and ensure optimal reimbursement.