Which coding system is used to report inpatient services?

Study for the AAPC Certified Professional Coder Exam. Practice with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question includes hints and explanations. Excel in your exam!

The coding system used to report inpatient services is ICD-10-PCS. This coding system is specifically designed for inpatient procedures and is used primarily in hospital settings. ICD-10-PCS codes provide detailed information about the procedures performed during a patient's hospital stay, including surgical operations and other interventions.

ICD-10-CM, while related, is used for outpatient services and diagnoses rather than inpatient procedures; it focuses on the conditions and diseases that are present at the time of a patient's encounter. CPT (Current Procedural Terminology) is mainly used for reporting outpatient procedures and services performed by healthcare providers. HCPCS Level II codes are used for billing and reporting specific services, supplies, and products typically not included in CPT codes, particularly those used by Medicare and Medicaid.

Understanding the distinctions between these coding systems is crucial for accurate coding and billing, especially in determining which codes apply to inpatient versus outpatient services. In summary, ICD-10-PCS is the correct choice for reporting inpatient services due to its focused scope on procedures performed in a hospital setting.

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