In the tabular list of ICD-10-CM, what are the major topic headings known as?

In the tabular list of ICD-10-CM, the major topic headings are referred to as code blocks. Each code block consists of a group of related codes that share a common clinical condition or topic. This structure allows coders to easily navigate through the different sections of the classification system to find the appropriate codes for a patient's diagnosis.

Code blocks are identified by specific categories, which represent a set of conditions that share similar traits or anatomical locations, thus streamlining the coding process. This organization is essential for ensuring accurate coding and billing in medical records, as it helps avoid errors and enhances data retrieval for healthcare statistics and research.

The other terms mentioned do have relevance within coding and billing, but they do not specifically refer to the major topics in the ICD-10-CM tabular list in the same way that code blocks do. Understanding this terminology is vital for anyone preparing for the MCBC certification exam, as it provides foundational knowledge for navigating medical coding resources effectively.