Guidance update: Learn the new rules for coding BMI and obesity

Why This Topic Matters

The guidance affects how coders interpret documentation, apply diagnosis sequencing concepts, and align coding practices with current official advice. It is especially useful for teams that need to keep ICD-10-CM coding consistent with Coding Clinic updates and FY2019 guideline changes.

Article Sections

1. BMI and obesity coding guidance

   Overview of Q4 2018 Coding Clinic guidance focused on body mass index reporting and related obesity documentation issues. The section also addresses associated diagnoses and general documentation expectations.

2. Tips on coding obesity and BMI

   A short set of practical guidance points from the update related to obesity, morbid obesity, BMI reporting, and documentation review. The section focuses on broad coding workflow considerations rather than code definitions.

3. More important guidance updates

   A roundup of additional Q4 2018 Coding Clinic topics spanning multiple ICD-10-CM diagnosis areas. The section highlights that the article also covers broader guideline and coding-update issues beyond BMI.