NClemons
New
This is my first time working for an FQHC. My question is FQHC and dental specific. Our providers have been using Z98.810 (Dental sealant status ) as the diagnosis when applying sealant. It's my understanding that status codes can not be a principal diagnosis. BUT... if (D1351) sealant is considered a prophylaxis or preventive treatment measure there is no definitive diagnosis. ie.. caries, erosion of tooth, etc... because it's applied before any caries develops. So what can the provider's use as a principal diagnosis? Can it be part of the Z01.20 (Encounter for dental examination and cleaning without abnormal findings )code even if it is provided on a separate DOS and cleaning was done prior? Or what diagnosis is an acceptable principal diagnosis. Thank you!