Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist (CEHRS) Practice Exam

What is the specific coding structure for ICD-10-PCS procedures?

1. 3-5 numeric codes

2. 5,000 codes

3. 200,000, 7 alphanumeric codes

4. 10,000 codes with various lengths

The correct answer is: 200,000, 7 alphanumeric codes

The correct choice describes that ICD-10-PCS codes are structured as 7-character alphanumeric codes, consisting of both letters and numbers. This coding system is specifically designed to classify procedures performed in inpatient settings, allowing for a detailed and standardized representation of medical procedures. The structure is important for several reasons. Firstly, the seven characters in each code provide comprehensive information about various aspects of the procedure, including the section of the code (such as medical and surgical), the specific body system involved, the root operation, the body part, the approach used, any device implanted, and any qualifying information. This level of detail supports accurate data collection and analysis, which is essential for billing, healthcare reporting, and maintaining a uniform healthcare system. The claim of 200,000 codes reflects not only the complexity of the medical procedures being coded but also the need for specificity in capturing the nuances of patient care and treatment practices. This extensive coding set enables healthcare providers to communicate efficiently and effectively regarding patient procedures. In contrast, other options do not accurately capture the full structure and purpose of ICD-10-PCS coding. For example, three to five numeric codes do not align with the established 7-character format, while the estimations of 10,000 codes with