J44.9

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, unspecified

Diseases of the respiratory system Billable
Quick Reference
Established COPD diagnosis without current exacerbation or specification of emphysema vs. chronic bronchitis

Clinical Information

When to Use This Code

Established COPD diagnosis without current exacerbation or specification of emphysema vs. chronic bronchitis

Common Clinical Scenarios

  • Chronic COPD management visits
  • Pulmonary function testing showing obstructive pattern
  • COPD on maintenance inhalers
  • Chronic dyspnea with smoking history

Documentation Requirements

  • Document pulmonary function test results (FEV1/FVC ratio)
  • Record GOLD stage (I-IV) if known
  • Note current vs. former smoking status
  • Document exacerbation status (use J44.0 or J44.1 if in exacerbation)

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Terms

These terms are included in this code:

COPDChronic obstructive lung diseaseChronic obstructive airways disease

Exclusion Terms

Do NOT use this code for:

  • COPD with acute exacerbation (J44.1)
  • COPD with acute lower respiratory infection (J44.0)
  • Asthma (J45.-)
  • Bronchiectasis (J47.-)

Coding Notes

Use J44.1 for acute exacerbation
Use J44.0 for acute lower respiratory infection
Add Z87.891 for history of tobacco use or F17.- for current tobacco use

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Code Details

Code
J44.9
Category
Diseases of the respiratory system
Billable Status
Billable

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