What punctuation is used in the ICD-10-CM index to indicate that an additional term is needed to clarify a code?

The use of a colon in the ICD-10-CM index serves a specific purpose in indicating that additional information is required to accurately clarify a code. In coding, a colon typically follows a term that has a subsequent list of codes or further descriptors that modify the term. This means the coder is alerted that to select the appropriate code, they need to consider the additional specification that follows the colon.

For example, if a diagnosis is provided that needs clarification or more detail, the colon directs the coder to examine the subsequent terms listed, which may include additional conditions, specifics, or inclusions that provide the context needed to assign the most accurate code. This systematic approach helps prevent ambiguity and enhances the precision of data captured in medical records.