2025 ICD-10-CM code Z47.1
Aftercare following joint replacement surgery.
Medical necessity for aftercare is established by the need for continued care to promote healing, restore function, manage pain, and prevent complications following joint replacement surgery.The documentation should clearly demonstrate the patient's ongoing needs and the benefits of the aftercare services provided.
The physician or other healthcare professional is responsible for providing and documenting the aftercare services, which may include monitoring the healing process, managing pain and inflammation, prescribing medications or therapies, and assessing the patient's progress towards functional recovery.
- Chapter 21: Factors influencing health status and contact with health services (Z00-Z99)
- Z47 Orthopedic aftercare
In simple words: This code is used when you are seeing a doctor or therapist after joint replacement surgery to help you recover.
This code is used for patients who have undergone joint replacement surgery and are receiving aftercare services, such as physical therapy, follow-up medical appointments, or other forms of care to aid in their recovery and rehabilitation.It is used during the healing and recovery timeframe immediately post-surgery.
Example 1: A patient who had a total knee replacement two weeks prior presents for a physical therapy session to improve range of motion and strength., A patient attends a follow-up appointment with their surgeon 6 weeks after a hip replacement for evaluation of the surgical site and assessment of mobility progress., A patient receives occupational therapy services to adapt their home environment and learn new techniques for performing daily activities following a shoulder replacement.
Documentation should include the type of joint replaced, the date of the joint replacement surgery, the specific aftercare services provided, the patient's progress, and any complications or issues encountered.
** Exempt from POA reporting.A corresponding procedure code must accompany a Z code if a procedure is performed.This code is not to be used to describe aftercare of a fracture.
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Orthopedic Surgery, Primary Care
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, On Campus-Outpatient Hospital, Off Campus-Outpatient Hospital, Office, Home, Skilled Nursing Facility,Comprehensive Outpatient Rehabilitation Facility