Question

1. What is the most efficient way to find the correct code using both the index and the tabular list?

2. For example, how were you able to locate the condition type 1 diabetes in the Alphabetic Index?

3. Explain what steps you took to find the code.

Answer 1

Steps to find ICD codes

Step-by-step explanation:

As per the healthcare settings, the ICD codes are sectioned under Alphabetic Index and Tabular List.

ICD-10 codes - ICD-10 CM (Clinical Modification ) and ICD-10 PCS (Procedure Coding System )

The general structure of a valid ICD-10 CM code is:

Total: 3-7 characters/Character 1: Only alphabet/Character 2: Only numeric/Character 3-7: Alphanumeric/Decimal: Placed after three characters

The most efficient way to find a code is:

1. Search the alphabetical index for the particular diagnostic term matching with the first letter
2. Check in the tabular list
3. Read and verify various conditions and instructions in the tabular list and match the code

For example, codes ranging from:

E00-E89 list endocrine, nutritional and metabolic diseases and disorders

Steps to locate the code for type 1 diabetes:

Match the disease in the alphabetical index

It will be listed under:

• Diabetes, diabetic (mellitus)
• Type 1 E10

Verify in the tabular list and find the complete code

For example: for type 1 diabetes mellitus with diabetic nephropathy

• E10: Type 1 diabetes mellitus
• E10.2: Type 1 diabetes mellitus with kidney complications
• E10.21: Type 1 diabetes mellitus with diabetic nephropathy