ICD-10-CM Code for General Psychiatric Examination
The ICD-10-CM code for a general psychiatric examination without a specific diagnosis is Z00.8 (encounter for other general examination).
Understanding ICD-10-CM Structure for Psychiatric Encounters
The ICD-10-CM uses an alphanumeric coding system that expanded diagnostic possibilities compared to earlier versions, with codes beginning with letters followed by numbers to specify conditions and encounter types 1, 2.
When to Use Z00.8
- Use Z00.8 when performing a routine psychiatric evaluation in a patient without established mental illness or when the purpose is screening rather than treatment of a known condition 3.
- This code applies to general psychiatric examinations for administrative purposes, employment clearance, or routine mental health screening 3.
Alternative Codes for Specific Clinical Scenarios
If the examination reveals or is focused on a specific condition, you must code the actual diagnosis rather than the examination itself:
- Z03.89 (encounter for observation for other suspected diseases and conditions ruled out) should be used when evaluating for a suspected psychiatric condition that is ultimately not diagnosed 3.
- Z13.89 (encounter for screening for other disorder) applies when performing targeted screening for mental health conditions in asymptomatic individuals 3.
Critical Coding Pitfalls to Avoid
- Never use examination codes (Z codes) when a definitive psychiatric diagnosis exists; the actual disorder code takes precedence over the encounter type 3, 4.
- Do not rely solely on DSM-5-TR coding guidance for ICD-10-CM codes, as the DSM provides limited and sometimes inaccurate coding advice compared to the official ICD-10-CM manual 4.
- Healthcare providers are ultimately responsible for accurate diagnosis coding, not billing staff or administrative personnel; this is a clinical competency requirement 3.