AHA Coding Clinic® for ICD-9 - 2001 Fourth Quarter
Screening
In addition to the new and revised V codes described above, effective October 1, 2001, there is a change in the reporting of results for screening tests. Screening is the testing for disease or disease precursors in seemingly well individuals so that early detection and treatment can be provided for those who test positive for the disease. When a diagnostic test is ordered in the absence of signs, symptoms or other evidence of illness or injury (e.g., screening), the principal or first-listed diagnosis should be the reason for the test. Should a condition be discovered during the screening...
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Article Overview
This article explains general screening-test reporting guidance and discusses how screening encounters are handled when a condition is identified. It is aimed at coding professionals who need to understand the topic, the timing of the guidance change, and the broad documentation context involved in screening scenarios.
Why This Topic Matters
Screening encounters are common in outpatient and preventive care, and correct reporting affects how the purpose of the test and any findings are captured in the record. This article helps readers understand the scope of the screening guidance update and the type of coding scenario it addresses.
What You Will Learn
- How screening is defined in the context of diagnostic testing
- How screening encounters are generally documented when findings are present
- What type of scenario the article uses to illustrate the reporting guidance
- Which coding references the article notes as being superseded by the update
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Coding auditors
- Clinical documentation staff
- Revenue cycle professionals
Codes Discussed
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