Question

The tabular listing of icd-10-cm provides great detail in code assognment and therefore the coder does not have to reference to alphabetic index assign codes. true or false

Answer 1

Answer: False

The ICD-10-cm and alphabetic index must be both used to assign a code. Although, the ICD-10-CM provides very detailed and specific documentation, the coder needs to verify, review and justify the selection of codes in the alphabetic index.
Therefore, it is essential to use both the Alphabetic Index and Tabular List when locating and assigning a code because the Alphabetic Index does not always provide the full code.