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Usage of ICD 10 CM - Drive the Codes

Alphabetic Index and Tabular List

The ICD-10-CM is divided into two main part,

  • Alphabetic Index 
  • Tabular List

Alphabetic Index

An alphabetical list of terms and their corresponding code and contains the following parts.

  • Diseases
  • Injury
  • External Causes of Injury
  • Neoplasms Table
  • Drugs and Chemicals Tables

Tabular List 

A structured list of codes divided into chapters based on body system or condition.

Drive the Codes

To select a code in the classification that corresponds to a diagnosis or reason for visit documented in a medical record.

First, locate the term in the Alphabetic Index, and then verify the code in the Tabular List.

Read thoroughly and be guided by instructional notations that appear in both the Alphabetic Index and the Tabular List.

It is essential to use both the Alphabetic Index and Tabular List when driving and assigning a code. The Alphabetic Index does not always provide the full code.

Selection of the full code, including laterality and any applicable 7th character can only be done in the Tabular List.

A dash (-) at the end of an Alphabetic Index entry indicates that additional characters are required. Even if a dash is not included at the Alphabetic Index entry, it is necessary to refer to the Tabular List to verify that no 7th character is required.


Stay connected continuation of the ICD 10 CM guidelines -PART 1

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