Certified Medical Assistant Practice Exam

Which of the following coding systems is used to identify and code diseases on insurance claims?

1. CPT-4

2. ICD-9-CM

3. HCPCS

4. SNOMED-CT

The correct answer is: ICD-9-CM

The ICD-9-CM, or the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification, is specifically designed to identify and code diseases and a wide variety of health conditions on insurance claims. This coding system provides a standardized way to record diagnoses and procedures, which is essential for billing and record-keeping within healthcare settings. In practice, ICD-9-CM codes are used to communicate medical diagnoses to payers and to facilitate reimbursement. This code system is critical in ensuring that providers are accurately compensated for healthcare services rendered. The other coding systems serve different purposes: CPT-4 is primarily used for coding medical procedures and services rather than diseases; HCPCS involves coding for health care procedures and supplies not covered in the CPT manual; and SNOMED-CT focuses on clinical terminology for documenting patient care but is not specifically for billing purposes. Understanding the distinct roles of these coding systems is vital for accurate medical billing and record-keeping.