Transportation insecurity
ICD-10 Z59.82 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of transportation insecurity.
Transportation insecurity refers to the lack of reliable access to transportation, which can significantly impact an individual's ability to obtain necessary healthcare services. This social determinant of health can lead to missed appointments, delayed care, and ultimately poorer health outcomes. Factors contributing to transportation insecurity include socioeconomic status, geographic location, and availability of public transportation. Preventive care and screenings may be compromised as individuals struggle to reach healthcare facilities. Addressing transportation insecurity is crucial for improving health equity and ensuring that all individuals have access to preventive services, timely screenings, and aftercare. Healthcare providers must recognize the role of transportation in health outcomes and consider it when developing care plans and interventions.
Document patient’s transportation challenges, missed appointments, and any referrals for transportation assistance.
Routine checkups where patients report difficulties in attending due to transportation issues, screenings that are missed because of lack of transport.
Consideration of social determinants and non-disease factors that may affect patient compliance and health outcomes.
Population-level data on transportation access, surveys assessing transportation barriers, and interventions aimed at improving access.
Epidemiological studies assessing the impact of transportation on health outcomes, community health initiatives addressing transportation barriers.
Focus on reporting and tracking health status in relation to transportation access.
Used when addressing transportation barriers during preventive visits.
Document discussions about transportation needs and referrals to services.
Primary care providers should assess social determinants during routine visits.
Document specific instances where transportation has impacted the patient's ability to access care, including missed appointments or delays in treatment. Include any referrals made to transportation services.