decisionhealth Newsletters, Coder Pink Sheets - 2003 Issue 6 (June)
Brush up on your knowledge with these dx code pointers
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Article Overview
This article is a practical refresher for diagnosis coders working with ICD-9-CM. It explains broad coding concepts such as checking chapter and section notes, understanding punctuation conventions in the index, recognizing when multiple diagnosis codes may be needed, and considering how certain chronic, infectious, neoplasm, and cerebrovascular conditions are reported. The guidance is aimed at physician-reporting coders and coding educators who want a quick review of common pitfalls and reminders.
Why This Topic Matters
Correct diagnosis coding depends on more than selecting a code from the tabular list. This article highlights where coders can miss important guidance in the manual and reviews several common areas where sequencing and supporting documentation affect coding accuracy.
Article Sections
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Diagnosis coding tips and reminders
General reminders about reviewing manual notes, punctuation conventions, sequencing concepts, and when to use additional diagnosis codes. The section also touches on several broad condition categories that commonly require special attention.
What You Will Learn
- How chapter and section notes can affect diagnosis code selection
- How punctuation in ICD-9-CM index entries is used as a coding aid
- When multiple diagnosis codes may be appropriate for a condition
- Broad considerations for coding certain infectious, neoplastic, and cerebrovascular diagnoses
Who Should Read This
- ICD-9-CM diagnosis coders
- Physician coding staff
- Coding educators and auditors
- Health information management professionals
Codes Discussed
Code Ranges Discussed
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