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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesZ36.87

Z36.87

Encounter for antenatal screening for uncertain dates

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

Code Description

ICD-10 Z36.87 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of encounter for antenatal screening for uncertain dates.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Z36.87 is used to indicate an encounter for antenatal screening when the gestational age is uncertain. This situation often arises in cases where the patient may not have a clear recollection of their last menstrual period or when there are discrepancies in ultrasound dating. The clinical context for this code includes the need for accurate gestational age determination to ensure appropriate prenatal care and interventions. Social determinants of health, such as access to healthcare, education level, and socioeconomic status, can influence a patient's ability to provide accurate dating information. Preventive care is critical during this stage, as it allows for timely screenings and interventions that can significantly impact maternal and fetal health outcomes. Screening for conditions such as gestational diabetes and preeclampsia is essential, and accurate dating is crucial for these assessments. Aftercare may involve follow-up appointments to monitor the pregnancy's progress and address any complications that arise due to the uncertainty in dating.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in patient reporting of last menstrual period
  • Need for additional diagnostic testing (e.g., ultrasounds)
  • Documentation of social determinants affecting patient history
  • Potential for multiple encounters leading to confusion in coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the patient's history regarding menstrual cycles
  • Failure to document the rationale for uncertain dating
  • Lack of follow-up documentation for subsequent encounters
  • Misalignment between clinical findings and coded diagnosis

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Primary Care

Documentation Requirements

Documentation should include the patient's menstrual history, any ultrasounds performed, and the rationale for the uncertain dates. Preventive measures taken during the encounter should also be documented.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Routine checkups where the patient reports uncertain dates, screenings for gestational diabetes, and follow-up visits to monitor pregnancy progress.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of social determinants such as access to healthcare services, education level, and support systems that may affect the patient's ability to provide accurate information.

Public Health

Documentation Requirements

Documentation should focus on population-level data, including tracking of uncertain dating cases and their outcomes. Surveillance data may also be collected.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Epidemiological studies assessing the impact of uncertain dating on maternal and fetal health outcomes.

Billing Considerations

Reporting on health disparities related to uncertain dating and access to prenatal care.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use Z36.87 When
  • Z codes should be used when the primary reason for the encounter is not a specific illness but rather a social or preventive reason
  • 87 should be sequenced appropriately, often as a secondary code following a primary diagnosis related to pregnancy
  • Payer requirements may vary, so it is essential to verify specific guidelines with each insurer

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use Z36.87 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related CPT Codes

99213CPT Code

Established patient office visit, Level 3

Clinical Scenario

Used during a routine prenatal visit where uncertain dates are discussed.

Documentation Requirements

Documentation must include the patient's history, any examinations performed, and the rationale for uncertain dating.

Specialty Considerations

Primary care providers should ensure comprehensive documentation to support the use of Z36.87.

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 antenatal encounters. Z36.87 provides a clear indication of the need for further evaluation and preventive care based on uncertain dating.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding, particularly for antenatal encounters. Z36.87 provides a clear indication of the need for further evaluation and preventive care based on uncertain dating.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding, particularly for antenatal encounters. Z36.87 provides a clear indication of the need for further evaluation and preventive care based on uncertain dating.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    CDC Guidelines for Prenatal Care

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    CDC Guidelines for Prenatal Care

Frequently Asked Questions

When should Z36.87 be used?

Z36.87 should be used when a patient presents for antenatal screening and the gestational age is uncertain. It is important to document the reasons for uncertainty and any follow-up actions taken.