ICD-10 Codes for STD Concerns
For asymptomatic patients presenting specifically for sexually transmitted disease screening, use ICD-10 code Z11.3 (Encounter for screening for infections with a predominantly sexual mode of transmission). 1
Primary Screening Code
- Z11.3 is the definitive code for encounters where asymptomatic patients are being screened for sexually transmitted infections, as established by the CDC in their screening guidelines 1
- This code applies across all populations undergoing routine STD screening, including sexually active females under 25 years, men who have sex with men, and persons in correctional facilities 1
When to Use Z11.3
- Annual screening for sexually active females aged less than 25 years for chlamydia and gonorrhea 1
- Routine screening for young sexually active men in settings where STD prevalence is ≥2% 1
- Entry screening for persons entering correctional facilities being tested for syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia 1
- Institutional screening for adolescents when prevalence is ≥2% 1
Critical Coding Distinction
- Do NOT use Z11.3 for Pap tests, as the CDC explicitly states that Pap tests should not be considered screening tests for STDs 1
- Z11.3 is reserved for direct STD screening encounters, not incidental findings or symptomatic presentations 1
Common Pitfall to Avoid
- Using incorrect codes when patients have symptoms or confirmed diagnoses—Z11.3 is exclusively for asymptomatic screening encounters 1
- Confusing STD screening codes with other sexual health encounters (such as contraception counseling or pregnancy prevention) 1
Emerging Monitoring Needs
- Current ICD-10 codes have limitations for tracking specific interventions like doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis (doxy PEP), with most encounters for at-risk patients not explicitly coded for specific populations like MSM 2
- Administrative data shows that among encounters with increased HIV/STI risk, 78.2% use the generic Z20.2 code (exposure to infections with predominantly sexual mode of transmission) rather than more specific behavioral codes 2