Medical Coding Systems Flashcards
7 cards from real CPC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Medical Coding Systems flashcards as text
Which ICD-10-CM convention indicates that a code cannot be used as a principal diagnosis?
Answer: Code first
'Code first' instructs the coder that the condition must be sequenced after an underlying disease.
In CPT, what does the term 'separate procedure' indicate?
Answer: The procedure is integral to a larger service and should not be billed when done with a related procedure
A 'separate procedure' designation means the code is bundled when performed alongside a related, more complex procedure.
HCPCS Level II codes are maintained by which organization?
Answer: CMS
CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) maintains HCPCS Level II codes used for supplies, equipment, and non-physician services.
When coding an encounter for a patient with a confirmed HIV infection being treated for pneumonia, which code is sequenced first?
Answer: The HIV code (B20)
ICD-10-CM guidelines require B20 (HIV disease) to be sequenced first when a patient with confirmed HIV is treated for an HIV-related condition.
Which CPT modifier indicates a procedure was performed bilaterally?
Answer: -50
Modifier -50 is appended to report bilateral procedures performed during the same operative session.
In ICD-10-PCS, the 'approach' character describes:
Answer: The technique used to reach the operative site
The approach character (5th character) in ICD-10-PCS defines the technique used to reach the procedure site, such as open, percutaneous, or endoscopic.
Which coding system is used to report diagnoses on inpatient hospital claims?
Answer: ICD-10-CM
ICD-10-CM is used to report diagnoses on both inpatient and outpatient claims in the United States.