ALS

johanna.smith@ccsjuneau.org

I am coding a patient with ALS, G12.21, and he is being admitted to home care for his dysphagia, skin breakdown, slurred speech and weakness. I don't see any guideline as to whether I should code the ALS as primary or the manifestations which are being treated with ALS as secondary. I see that ALS is a Hospice primary code but he's not there yet. Please advise.
Johanna

apoolman@home-rehab.com

My thought is that you would code the ALS as primary followed by the
dysphagia and slurred speech and skin breakdown. I would think the weakness
is inheritant to the dx. However I have never coded ALS so it is very much
an opinion!

Arlene Poolman, RN
Director of Clinical Services
At Home Rehab
800.880.9715

The Professional Care YOU Deserve

cbrunk@totalhh.com

I agree with Arlene, code the ALS as primary no need to code the muscle weakness.

Priscilla Brunk RN, HCS-D
Corporate Coder
Cell: 772-284-1185
Fax: 954-962-2667

jmpelton51@aol.com

When coding a chronic condition such as ALS you would code the ALS first if you are treating multiple aspects of the disease (for example, in this case speech for dysphagia and speech, PT for weakness, nursing for teaching or foley care etc.) If the referral is for PT only then you would use the symptom code (weakness) first and list the ALS second.

apoolman@home-rehab.com

So then would you only code the ALS? Or do you code the ALS and then list
all the symptoms?



Arlene Poolman, RN

Director of Clinical Services

At Home Rehab

800.880.9715



*The Professional Care YOU Deserve*

JCB1020

Can anyone tell me if there was a response/follow up to this topic yesterday? I was curious to know as this is a familiar scenario for us recently.

Thanks!
Jaycee Barkasi
OASIS coordinator
Gallagher Home Health Services

ericcabali18

Pls correct me if im wrong. for PT-ALSif there is a multiple falls, my primary is repeated falls , other lack of coordination then ALS, or primary is unsteadiness on feet, then other lack of coordination and ALS