ICD-10 is used to code and classify disease, injury, and cause of death information. It is a system of coding that standardizes medical data.
ICD stands for the International Classification of Diseases. This classification provides a comprehensive system for coding diagnoses, symptoms, procedures, and other health-related information. ICD codes are essential for several key functions:
- Statistical Tracking: They enable the monitoring of disease prevalence and incidence at both national and international levels.
- Billing and Reimbursement: Healthcare providers use ICD codes to submit claims to insurance companies for reimbursement of services rendered.
- Research: Researchers use ICD codes to identify and study specific health conditions and treatments.
- Public Health: ICD data assists in public health surveillance and resource allocation.
While ICD-10 is currently the prevalent version in many countries, including the United States, the World Health Organization (WHO) has released ICD-11. The implementation of ICD-11 varies by country. ICD-10 is made up of multiple coding systems that standardize medical data.