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Wiki Z code question

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margiemed117

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I was wondering if anyone co0uld tell me from experience if they have used Z538 as a first listed code before? I did and was told I could not....I think I can...but who am I right? I would greatly appreciate any and all comments....thank you and have a great day!
 
it is not acceptable as first listed. it should be given in the second position.
 
There is no prohibition on using the Z codes as first-listed. However, per the ICD-10 guidelines IV.A.2: "When a patient presents for outpatient surgery (same day surgery), code the reason for the surgery as the first-listed diagnosis (reason for the encounter), even if the surgery is not performed due to a contraindication." So for this particular code, it would be inappropriate since the guidelines require that the reason for visit be listed first.
 
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