ICD-10 Codes for Lafora Disease
Lafora ICD codes, what they mean, and how to share them
Lafora ICD-10 code G40.C went into effect on October 1, 2023. Learn more from our press release! Keep reading for the codes and answers to commonly asked questions.
ICD-10 Codes
G40.C Lafora progressive myoclonus epilepsy
Lafora body disease Code also, if applicable, associated conditions such as dementia (F02.8-)
G40.C0 Lafora progressive myoclonus epilepsy, not intractable
G40.C01 Lafora progressive myoclonus epilepsy, not intractable, with status epilepticus
G40.C09 Lafora progressive myoclonus epilepsy, not intractable, without status epilepticus
Lafora progressive myoclonus epilepsy NOS
G40.C1 Lafora progressive myoclonus epilepsy, intractable
G40.C11 Lafora progressive myoclonus epilepsy, intractable, with status epilepticus
G40.C19 Lafora progressive myoclonus epilepsy, intractable, without status epilepticus
Access the CMS definitions HERE.
Also, download a PDF of the codes HERE.
New ICD-10 G40.C Lafora progressive myoclonus epilepsy effective October 1, 2023
FAQs
What is an ICD-10 code?
The International Classification of Diseases, 10th Edition (ICD-10), is a crucial tool for healthcare professionals, insurers, and policymakers worldwide. These codes provide a more comprehensive framework for documenting patient conditions like Lafora Disease and streamlining insurance claims processing.
ICD stands for “International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems.” It is a standard classification system used around the world throughout the healthcare system, along with government agencies and researchers, to track and report diseases, disorders, injuries, and other health conditions.
What does the code mean?
G40.C is officially designated as part of the upcoming addendum to the system, falling under the G category of diseases representing nervous system disorders.
It means improved recognition and tracking of Lafora Disease.
When are they used?
All healthcare systems use ICD-10 codes for medical reporting.
Why do we need a code for Lafora Disease?
An ICD-10 code provides a common language for recording, reporting, and tracking Lafora Disease cases and patient experiences across healthcare systems.
Until now, Lafora Disease was not formally tracked in any healthcare system, as if our patients were invisible. Our disease was grouped with other epilepsy diseases, though they are not as severe or complex as Lafora. This made it difficult for doctors, insurance companies, and policymakers to understand the urgency and unique needs of our kids.
Read more in our Press Release.
What does this mean for the Lafora Disease community?
A unique ICD-10 code is huge!
ICD-10 codes…
- improve streamlining insurance claims processing,
- provide important data to healthcare professionals
- make it easier for researchers to conduct epidemiologic research and retrospective studies,
- determine true prevalence rates
- recruit patients for clinical trials,
- track outcomes of clinical interventions
- develop protocols for standard of care.
Does this code replace previously used codes?
Not completely! The codes only work when people use them. If healthcare providers continue to use generic epilepsy codes, then Lafora Disease data will not be tracked. That’s why it’s so important that you share this new information. Families, please tell your healthcare teams about the new codes.
Also, to help share the news, we’ve created business cards that you can download and hand out.
Download business cards with the ICD-10 code. Families, you can give them to your healthcare providers.
Chelsea’s Hope can also send you the printed business cards! Please email info@chelseashope.org to request copies of the cards. We will need your address to ship them to you.
Read the Importance of ICD from the World Health Organization.
You can also watch a short video from Everylife Foundation for Rare Diseases that explains what an ICD-10 code is and why it is important!
Chelsea’s Hope, Post Office Box 348626, Sacramento, CA 95834