Accurate ICD-10 Coding for Primary Osteoarthritis of the Right Knee: Improving Diagnosis and Treatment

Accurate ICD-10 coding for primary osteoarthritis of the right knee (M17.11) is essential for effective patient care, precise treatment planning, and robust medical research. This article highlights the importance of specifying laterality in knee osteoarthritis to improve clinical outcomes and streamline healthcare communication. Challenges such as miscoding and incomplete documentation impact patient care and data reliability, underscoring the need for ongoing education and technology integration. Advances in digital tools, AI, and collaboration between clinicians and coders promise to enhance coding accuracy and protect patient privacy. Commitment to high standards in ICD-10 coding supports better disease management, healthcare planning, and overall quality of life for patients with right knee osteoarthritis.