ICD-10-CM is classified as what type of coding system?

ICD-10-CM, which stands for the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, Clinical Modification, is primarily classified as a clinical classification coding system. This system is used to categorize diseases, disorders, and various health conditions to facilitate the collection of health data related to diseases and health outcomes.

The main purpose of ICD-10-CM is to provide detailed and specific information about patients' diagnoses. This classification system enables healthcare providers, insurers, and researchers to accurately document and analyze health information, serving as a vital tool in the clinical setting for patient care, morbidity statistics, and health management.

In contrast, other classification systems mentioned, such as billing classifications and procedure coding, serve different functions. Billing classification might encompass coding systems that focus on insurance reimbursement, while procedure coding (like CPT or HCPCS) specifically classifies medical procedures and services, rather than diagnoses or health conditions. Medical necessity criteria guide what services or treatments are deemed necessary for coverage, which is a separate area of focus from clinical classification. Thus, ICD-10-CM's role as a clinical classification underscores its importance in healthcare data analysis and management.