A fluid-restricted diet is considered a therapeutic diet for K0520D (Nutritional approaches - therapeutic diet) if the patient’s fluid restriction is prescribed in order to manage a disease or clinical condition, CMS clarified in the recent July quarterly OASIS Q&As. 
 
This was in response to a question asking if this type of diet should be considered under the OASIS item. 
 
The intent of K0520 is to assess and report which of the listed nutritional approaches apply to the patient, CMS states in their response.  
“Therapeutic diets are not defined by the content of what is provided or when it is served, but why is the diet required,” they add. 
 
This was one of 10 questions included in the most recent update. 
 
 Additional topics covered in the July release include:    
 
  • If incontinence experienced by the patient while performing the activity for M1840 (Toilet transferring) should be considered when assessing/coding for the item. 
  • Whether an elevator is considered a mechanical lift for GG0110C (Prior device use – mechanical lift). 
  • If OASIS data needs to be collected and submitted for Medicare Part B Outpatient Therapy service patients that are being seen by a home health agency. 
 
For a full story, see the upcoming issues of Home Health Line and Diagnosis Coding Pro for Home Health.    
 
Editor’s note: To view the full CMS July 2025 quarterly OASIS Q&As, visit  https://tinyurl.com/2uv27yxc.