Final answer:
The first starting point when using ICD-10 is the Alphabetic index. Medical coders and billers use ICD codes to assign procedures and process insurance claims, respectively. Clinicians use these codes to order laboratory tests and prescribe treatments.
Step-by-step explanation:
The International Classification of Diseases (ICD) is a critical tool used by healthcare professionals worldwide for a variety of purposes, including tracking health statistics, billing and coding for insurance purposes, and more. When using ICD-10, coders typically begin with the Alphabetic index, which is considered the starting point for finding the correct ICD codes. After locating the appropriate code in the Alphabetic index, the coder then verifies the code and any applicable instructions in the Tabular index.
ICD codes can be found in several locations within the healthcare system. For example, medical coders use ICD codes to assign the proper code for procedures performed. Additionally, medical billers use these codes to process claims for reimbursement by insurance companies. In the case of a patient being treated for a viral infection, the ICD code would be used by clinicians to order appropriate laboratory tests and prescribe treatments.