How would you code a ‘never nude’?

Effective May 22, 2013

Published May 22, 2013

Last Reviewed May 21, 2013

With the May 26 release date of the long-anticipated new season of “Arrested Development” coming ever closer, we got to thinking about the show’s contributions to health care.

“Arrested Development” character Dr. Tobias Fünke occasionally bemoans the fact that his condition, “never nude” (a pathological fear of nudity), is not recognized in the U.S.

But as NBC News’ The Body Odd blog recently pointed out, “never nude” actually is based on a real condition known as gymnophobia. Those suffering from gymnophobia “may worry about seeing others naked or being seen naked or both,” according to MedicineNet.com.

However, that still leaves the question of how you would code this condition. Email your solutions to Home Health Line editor Tina Irgang at tirgang@decisionhealth.com. Bonus points for those who use ICD-10.

And don’t forget: For coding peace of mind, turn to our Home Health Coding Center.

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