Codes for special purposes
This chapter covers ICD-10-CM codes in the range U00-U85 for codes for special purposes. Codes for special purposes (U00-U85)
Chapter Overview
Key Statistics
- •Contains 1 categories and 4 total codes
- •Includes 1 billable codes and 3 non-billable codes
- •Chapter range: U00-U85
Clinical Relevance
Temporary codes for emerging diseases and special surveillance. Currently includes COVID-19 related codes.
Documentation Requirements
Requires specific condition documentation and may need laboratory confirmation for infectious diseases.
Special Considerations
COVID-19 codes require specific documentation of exposure, symptoms, and test results. May be updated frequently.
Categories in this Chapter
Chapter-Specific Coding Guidelines
General Guidelines for Codes for special purposes:
- Follow standard ICD-10-CM coding principles for codes for special purposes
- Document the most specific diagnosis supported by the medical record
- Use additional codes for manifestations, complications, or associated conditions
- Ensure proper sequencing based on the reason for the encounter
Documentation Requirements:
- •Specific condition or disease process
- •Acute versus chronic status when applicable
- •Severity or stage when documented
- •Associated symptoms or complications
- •Treatment response and current status
Sequencing Rules:
- Principal diagnosis should reflect the main reason for the encounter
- Sequence complications according to treatment focus
- Use appropriate combination codes when available
- Follow chapter-specific sequencing guidelines
When to Use:
- ✓For conditions classified in the U00-U85 range
- ✓When the condition is the primary focus of care
- ✓During active treatment or monitoring
- ✓For documented complications of the condition
When NOT to Use:
- ✗For personal history without current manifestations
- ✗During screening encounters without findings
- ✗For conditions better classified elsewhere
- ✗When condition is ruled out or suspected only
Special Considerations:
- ⚠Review chapter-specific coding guidelines
- ⚠Consider combination codes before multiple codes
- ⚠Document functional impact when relevant
- ⚠Use external cause codes when applicable
Version Updates
The 2025 ICD-10-CM updates include refinements to codes for special purposes coding for improved specificity and clinical relevance.
Recent Updates:
Enhanced Codes for special purposes Specificity
Updated codes within U00-U85 for improved clinical documentation
Impact: Better alignment with clinical practice and quality reporting
Implementation Guidance:
- •Review all codes for special purposes coding practices
- •Update documentation templates as needed
- •Train coding staff on any new requirements
- •Implement quality checks for accuracy
Upcoming Changes:
- →Potential enhancements to codes for special purposes codes in future updates
- →Continued alignment with clinical practice evolution
Related Resources
Key resources for codes for special purposes coding and clinical documentation.
Official Documentation:
Related Chapters:
Tools and References:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key considerations when coding codes for special purposes?
Focus on specific diagnosis documentation, proper sequencing, and use of additional codes for complications or manifestations related to codes for special purposes.
How do I determine the most appropriate code within this chapter?
Review the medical documentation for the most specific diagnosis, check for combination codes, and follow the ICD-10-CM guidelines for this chapter.
When should I use additional codes?
Use additional codes for manifestations, complications, external causes, or other conditions that affect patient care during the encounter.