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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesJ45.40

J45.40

Moderate persistent asthma, uncomplicated

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/06/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 J45.40 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of moderate persistent asthma, uncomplicated.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Moderate persistent asthma is characterized by daily symptoms that require the use of a short-acting beta-agonist for relief, occurring more than twice a week but not daily. Patients may experience nighttime symptoms more than once a month, and lung function tests typically show a FEV1 (Forced Expiratory Volume in one second) between 60% and 80% of predicted values. The respiratory system, particularly the bronchi and bronchioles, is primarily affected, leading to inflammation, increased mucus production, and bronchoconstriction. Disease progression can vary, with some patients experiencing exacerbations that may require systemic corticosteroids or hospitalization. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough patient history, physical examination, and spirometry to assess lung function. Additionally, identifying triggers such as allergens, irritants, and respiratory infections is crucial for effective management.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires comprehensive assessment including history, physical exam, and spirometry.
  • Treatment complexity: Involves long-term management with inhaled corticosteroids, bronchodilators, and potential biologic therapies.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed documentation of symptoms, triggers, and treatment response is essential.
  • Coding specificity: Requires accurate coding to differentiate from mild and severe asthma.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misclassification of asthma severity can lead to incorrect coding.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete records of symptoms and treatment can result in denials.
  • Billing challenges: Variability in payer guidelines may complicate reimbursement.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pulmonology

Documentation Requirements

Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply

Common Clinical Scenarios

Various clinical presentations within this specialty area

Billing Considerations

Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines

Allergy and Immunology

Documentation Requirements

Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply

Common Clinical Scenarios

Various clinical presentations within this specialty area

Billing Considerations

Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines

Related CPT Codes

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

Moderate persistent asthma significantly impacts population health, contributing to increased healthcare utilization due to exacerbations and hospitalizations. Quality measures often focus on the frequency of asthma control assessments and the use of controller medications. Epidemiologically, asthma prevalence varies by age, gender, and environmental factors, necessitating targeted public health interventions to improve outcomes and reduce disparities in care.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Moderate persistent asthma significantly impacts population health, contributing to increased healthcare utilization due to exacerbations and hospitalizations. Quality measures often focus on the frequency of asthma control assessments and the use of controller medications. Epidemiologically, asthma prevalence varies by age, gender, and environmental factors, necessitating targeted public health interventions to improve outcomes and reduce disparities in care.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include ensuring that the documentation supports the diagnosis and reflects the complexity of the patient's condition. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or failure to meet payer-specific criteria for asthma management. Best practices include regular updates to the patient's treatment plan and clear communication with insurance providers regarding the necessity of prescribed therapies.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10 Official Guidelines for J00-J99
  • •
    Clinical Documentation Requirements

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10 Official Guidelines for J00-J99
  • •
    Clinical Documentation Requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

What specific conditions are covered by J45.40?

J45.40 covers moderate persistent asthma, which includes patients experiencing daily symptoms requiring rescue inhalers, with nighttime symptoms occurring more than once a month. It does not include patients with mild or severe persistent asthma.

When should J45.40 be used instead of related codes?

J45.40 should be used when a patient exhibits moderate persistent asthma symptoms as defined by the frequency of symptoms and lung function tests. It is important to differentiate from J45.30 and J45.50 based on symptom severity and treatment needs.

What documentation supports J45.40?

Documentation should include a detailed history of asthma symptoms, frequency of exacerbations, response to treatment, and results from spirometry tests. This information is crucial for justifying the use of J45.40.