Wiki Can you use an ICD-9 code on a order as a dx?

[jfogelquist]

A physician orders a chest x-ray and under the diagnosis section the physician wrote 486. Can we code from that or does it have to be in written form (pneumonia). I have been told that coders aren't allowed to code from a neumeric ICD-9 code and only a written diagnosis. Does anyone know where I can find this supporting documentation? Thank you!

 

[Cyndi113]

Good morning,

if the diagnosis is appropriate for the x-ray, why would you not use it? Whether it's written out as pneumonia or 486, it's still the reason the MD is ordering the x-ray, right?