Distinguish ‘Other’ From ‘Unspecified’
Question: I just got my CPC-A credential, and I’ve noticed that a lot of ICD-10-CM codes feature the words “other” and “unspecified.” How can I remember which one is appropriate for each situation? Florida Subscriber Answer: ICD-10-CM uses “other” in situations where the provider specifies the condition, but there isn’t a corresponding ICD-10-CM code. The codes and code descriptors may use language like “not elsewhere classifiable,” “not elsewhere classified,” “NEC,” “other,” or “other specified.” You should use a code with an “other” classification if there’s not a more specific option for the condition documented by the provider. The “unspecified” codes can be used when there isn’t enough information in the documentation to support a more specific diagnosis. The code and code descriptor may use the phrase “not otherwise specified,” “NOS,” or “unspecified.” You should use an unspecified code when there isn’t enough information in the documentation to assign a more specific code. Rachel Dorrell, MA, MS, CPC-A, CPPM, Production Editor, AAPC
