Accuracy of ICD-9-CM Codes for Identifying Cardiovascular and Stroke Risk Factors

What is it about?

This research sought to determine which codes in Medicare Part A data identify cardiovascular and stroke risk factors.

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Why is it important?

Using ICD-9-CM codes alone, heart failure, coronary artery disease, diabetes, hypertension, and stroke can be ruled in but not necessarily ruled out. Where feasible, review of additional data (eg, physician notes or imaging studies) should be used to confirm the diagnosis of valvular disease, arterial peripheral embolus, intracranial hemorrhage, and deep venous thrombosis.