What does an ICD-10-CM code typically consist of?

An ICD-10-CM code typically consists of a 3 to 7 character code representing a disease or condition. This coding system is designed to provide a detailed classification of diseases, conditions, and related health issues. The structure of an ICD-10-CM code starts with a letter followed by numbers, allowing for a comprehensive coding system that captures a wide range of diagnoses.

The first character is an alphabetic letter, indicating a general category of health conditions. This is followed by additional characters that provide more specificity regarding the diagnosis, including the condition's location, severity, and other relevant details. The ability to extend the code up to 7 characters allows for greater granularity, which is essential for accurate billing and patient care documentation.

Using this structure, healthcare providers can ensure precise coding for various conditions, which is crucial for proper billing, reimbursement, and statistical data collection in healthcare. This coding system supports the advancement of healthcare record management and promotes uniformity in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases.