Accurate coding in laboratory orders is crucial for the proper diagnosis and treatment of MASH/MASLD. Using incorrect ICD-10-CM diagnosis codes can result in insurance denials for testing coverage, shifting the financial responsibility to patients. With the strict reimbursement guidelines set by both public and private insurers for laboratory tests, it is essential that clinicians select ICD-10-CM codes with the highest level of specificity.

When ordering laboratory testing for MASH/MASLD, the clinician should consider the following, medically appropriate, codes as the reason for testing. Additionally, these codes should be documented and supported by the patient's medical record. It is also important that medical coders recognize when the Excludes1 and Excludes2 notes prevent the codes from being recognized by payers.