ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesZ36.82

Z36.82

Encounter for antenatal screening for nuchal translucency

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/12/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 Z36.82 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of encounter for antenatal screening for nuchal translucency.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Z36.82 is used to document encounters for antenatal screening specifically for nuchal translucency, a critical ultrasound measurement taken during the first trimester of pregnancy to assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome. This screening is part of routine prenatal care and is essential for early detection, allowing for informed decision-making and potential further testing. Factors influencing health status include maternal age, family history, and previous pregnancy outcomes, which can affect the decision to undergo this screening. Social determinants such as access to healthcare, education level, and socioeconomic status can also impact a woman's ability to receive timely prenatal care. Preventive care through early screening can lead to better health outcomes for both the mother and the fetus, emphasizing the importance of regular contact with health services throughout pregnancy.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Need for accurate documentation of the screening purpose and results
  • Variability in patient demographics and risk factors
  • Potential for additional follow-up codes based on screening results
  • Integration with other prenatal care codes

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the reason for the screening
  • Failure to link the Z code with appropriate CPT codes for the procedure
  • Misinterpretation of screening results leading to incorrect coding
  • Lack of follow-up documentation if further testing is indicated

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Primary Care

Documentation Requirements

Documentation must include the reason for the screening, patient history, and any relevant risk factors. Clear notes on the ultrasound findings and follow-up plans are essential.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Routine prenatal visits where nuchal translucency screening is performed, including discussions about results and potential next steps.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of social determinants such as access to care, education, and support systems that may affect the patient's ability to attend screenings.

Public Health

Documentation Requirements

Documentation should focus on population health data, including screening rates and outcomes across different demographics.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Public health initiatives aimed at increasing awareness and access to prenatal screening services.

Billing Considerations

Tracking health disparities and ensuring equitable access to screening services for all populations.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use Z36.82 When
  • Z codes are used to indicate encounters for screening and preventive services
  • When coding Z36
  • 82, it should be sequenced appropriately based on the patient's primary diagnosis and any related conditions
  • Payer requirements may vary, so it's important to verify coverage for preventive services

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use Z36.82 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related CPT Codes

76813CPT Code

Ultrasound, pregnant uterus, transabdominal, real-time with image documentation, fetal biometry, and nuchal translucency measurement

Clinical Scenario

Used during the encounter for nuchal translucency screening to document the procedure performed.

Documentation Requirements

Documentation must include the indication for the ultrasound, findings, and any follow-up recommendations.

Specialty Considerations

Primary care providers should ensure that the screening is part of routine prenatal care.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding, particularly for preventive services like nuchal translucency screening. Z36.82 provides a clear indication of the purpose of the encounter, which is essential for accurate billing and tracking of preventive care.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding, particularly for preventive services like nuchal translucency screening. Z36.82 provides a clear indication of the purpose of the encounter, which is essential for accurate billing and tracking of preventive care.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

billing and tracking of preventive care.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ACOG Guidelines on Nuchal Translucency Screening

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ACOG Guidelines on Nuchal Translucency Screening

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the importance of coding Z36.82 accurately?

Accurate coding of Z36.82 is crucial for ensuring that patients receive appropriate preventive care and that healthcare providers are reimbursed for services rendered. It also helps track the effectiveness of screening programs and identify populations at risk for chromosomal abnormalities.