Are the parenthetical terms next to Hypertension (HTN) in the ICD-10-CM alphabetic index required?

Parenthetical Terms in the ICD-10-CM Alphabetic Index for HTN Are Not Required

The parenthetical terms next to Hypertension (HTN) in the ICD-10-CM alphabetic index are not required but serve as supplementary information to help coders identify the correct code. 1

Types of Parenthetical Information in ICD-10-CM

• Parenthetical terms in the ICD-10-CM alphabetic index serve as synonyms or alternative terminology, allowing coders to find the correct code regardless of which term appears in the medical documentation 1
• These terms provide qualifying information that offers additional descriptive details about hypertensive conditions which may affect code selection 1
• Parenthetical information helps with proper specificity in diagnosis coding, which is crucial for accurate reimbursement 1

Function of Parenthetical Terms

• Parenthetical terms act as clarifiers or alternative descriptors rather than mandatory elements for code assignment 1
• They help medical coders navigate the index more effectively by providing related terms that might appear in clinical documentation 1
• In the context of HTN (hypertension), parenthetical terms often include:
  • Alternative names for the condition
  • Associated conditions
  • Qualifying information about the type of hypertension 1

Clinical Implications

• While not required for code assignment, understanding parenthetical terms helps ensure accurate coding which impacts:
  • Proper reimbursement for services
  • Accurate clinical data collection
  • Appropriate quality measures 1
• In clinical documentation, physicians should focus on documenting the specific type and characteristics of hypertension rather than worrying about matching exact parenthetical terms 1

Best Practices for Coding

• Focus on the main term (hypertension) and its clinical presentation rather than requiring exact matches to parenthetical terms 1
• Use parenthetical information as guidance to select the most specific and accurate code available 1
• When in doubt about code selection, refer to the official ICD-10-CM coding guidelines rather than relying solely on parenthetical information 1