What’s the difference between B20 and Z21? Which is right for positive HIV status?

ICD-10-CM diagnosis coding for positive HIV status

Question:

For an HIV positive patient without symptoms, is the correct diagnosis code Z21 or B20? What difference does it make to reimbursement?

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Last revised June 24, 2021 - Betsy Nicoletti
Tags: HCC diagnosis coding

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In 1988, CodingIntel.com founder Betsy Nicoletti started a Medical Services Organization for a rural hospital, supporting physician practice. She has been a self-employed consultant since 1998. She estimates that in the last 20 years her audience members number over 28,400 at in person events and webinars. She has had 2,500 meetings with clinical providers and reviewed over 43,000 medical notes. She knows what questions need answers and developed this resource to answer those questions. For more about Betsy visit www.betsynicoletti.com.