How the structure of ICD-10 codes organized in medical coding?

Understanding ICD-10 Codes

Learning the structure of ICD-10 codes is very important in your journey to getting the Best Medical Coding Training in Trivandrum. Here’s a simplified breakdown of how these codes are organized:

1. Three-Character Categories:

• The first three characters of each ICD-10 code consist of a letter followed by two numerals, which concerns the disease category. For instance, “J45” stands for asthma.

2. Fourth Character (Etiology, Anatomic Site, Severity):

• The fourth character again gives further description about the condition, for example, its cause, location or degree. For example, “J45.2” shows that it is mild intermittent asthma.

3. Fifth and Sixth Characters (Detailed Specificity):

• Such characters provide additional specificity, for instance, the site of the body affected, or the clinical features. For instance, code “J45.21” is used for mild intermittent asthma with exacerbation.

4. Seventh Character (Extension):

• The seventh character, depending on the context, may represent the type of visit (new, subsequent, or sequela) or event (accident, encounter or examination). For instance, S06.0X1A code shows the occurrence of concussion at the first encounter.

5. Placeholders (X):

• An “X” is used in cases where some characters need to be included into code whereas others do not.

Understanding the codes in ICD-10 is one of the most important aspects of developing good knowledge in coding. Learn at the Best Medical Coding Training in Trivandrum to be professional in this critical healthcare profession by doing Medical Coding training.