Question

multiple choice question

which of these help to point to the correct term but do not have to appear in the physicians diagnostic statement for the coder to correctly select the code?

main terms
nonessential modifiers
subterms
essential modifiers

Explanation:

Analyze the question requirements

The question asks to identify the term in medical coding (specifically ICD-10-CM) that helps point to the correct code but does not need to be explicitly written in the physician's diagnostic statement.

Apply coding conventions

Using the Nonessential modifiers knowledge point

• Nonessential modifiers are subterms enclosed in parentheses following a main term in the Alphabetic Index.
• Their presence or absence in the physician's diagnostic statement does not affect the code assignment.
• They serve as supplementary words to help the coder locate the correct term.

Evaluate the options

• Main terms: These are the primary entries in the index (diseases, conditions, adjectives) and must be represented in the diagnostic statement.
• Nonessential modifiers: These fit the definition perfectly as they are optional descriptors in parentheses.
• Subterms: These are essential modifiers that must be present in the diagnostic statement to select that specific subterm code.
• Essential modifiers: These must appear in the diagnostic statement to alter the code assignment.

Answer:

• Main terms
• Nonessential modifiers (Correct answer)
• Subterms
• Essential modifiers