tci ED Coding & Reimbursement Alert - 2021 Issue Q4

Reader Questions: Differentiate Food Allergy From Intolerance

Question: We often see patients at the ED who have allergies or intolerance regarding things like gluten and lactose. Should we code intolerance the same as allergies? Tennessee Subscriber Answer: No, food allergies are not the same as food intolerances. Basically stated, “food allergies, such as allergies to nuts or shellfish, are caused by a problem with your immune system. Food sensitivities or intolerances, such as reactions to wheat or milk, are caused by a problem with your digestive system,” according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) (www.womenshealth.gov/healthy-eating/food-allergies-and-sensitivities). The difference...

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