Final answer:
The first step in coding with ICD-10 begins with the Alphabetic Index, which is referenced before the Tabular List. ICD codes play an integral role in healthcare, from clinical decisions to billing processes, and they are commonly found in medical records and on insurance claims. correct answer is B) Alphabetic Index.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first step in coding with ICD-10 begins with the B) Alphabetic Index. This is the starting point for medical coders to locate the appropriate codes. The Alphabetic Index is utilized before referencing the Tabular List, where a more detailed code can be found and additional information such as inclusion terms or coding guidelines is provided.
ICD codes are critical in the healthcare system for various purposes, from guiding clinical decisions to processing insurance claims. For instance, when a patient is treated for a viral infection, the clinician uses ICD codes to order specific laboratory tests and prescribe treatment. Medical laboratories rely on these codes to identify necessary tests. Once a procedure is completed, medical coders assign the proper ICD code, and medical billers use them to process claims. Additionally, ICD codes are found on death certificates and are used by epidemiologists for vital statistics. Two common locations where an ICD code might be found are medical records and insurance claims.