ICD-10 Guide

Z11.2

Encounter for screening for other bacterial diseases

BILLABLE STATUSYes

IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015

LAST UPDATED09/12/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 Z11.2 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of encounter for screening for other bacterial diseases.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Z11.2 is utilized during encounters specifically aimed at screening for bacterial diseases that are not classified under more specific codes. This code is essential in preventive care, allowing healthcare providers to identify potential bacterial infections early, which can significantly impact patient outcomes. The use of this code reflects an understanding of social determinants of health, such as access to healthcare, socioeconomic status, and education, which can influence the likelihood of bacterial infections. Preventive screenings are crucial in populations at higher risk, including those with compromised immune systems or those living in communal settings. Proper documentation of the patient's risk factors, screening results, and follow-up plans is vital for accurate coding and reimbursement. This code also plays a role in public health initiatives aimed at monitoring and controlling bacterial diseases within communities.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

Need for thorough documentation of screening rationale and results
Variability in bacterial diseases screened based on patient demographics
Potential overlap with other Z codes for screening
Requirement for clear linkage to preventive care guidelines

Audit Risk Factors

Inadequate documentation of screening purpose and results
Failure to link screening to specific risk factors
Misuse of Z11.2 when a more specific diagnosis exists
Lack of follow-up documentation for positive screening results

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Primary Care

Documentation Requirements

Documentation must include patient history, risk factors, screening results, and follow-up plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Routine checkups where bacterial disease screening is indicated, such as during annual physicals or in patients with chronic conditions.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of social determinants such as living conditions, occupation, and access to healthcare services.

Public Health

Documentation Requirements

Documentation should focus on population health data, surveillance of bacterial disease prevalence, and community health initiatives.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Epidemiological studies and community screenings aimed at identifying bacterial outbreaks.

Billing Considerations

Emphasis on tracking health status and outcomes in diverse populations.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use Z11.2 When

Z codes are used when a patient is not currently ill but is receiving services for preventive care
2 should be sequenced appropriately, typically as a secondary diagnosis when a primary diagnosis is present
Payer requirements may vary, so coders should verify specific guidelines for preventive services

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use Z11.2 When

No specific exclusions found.

Related CPT Codes

99385CPT Code

Preventive medicine, new patient, 18-39 years

Clinical Scenario

Used in conjunction with Z11.2 for preventive screenings during a new patient visit.

Documentation Requirements

Documentation must include the patient's history, risk factors, and results of the screening.

Specialty Considerations

Primary care providers should ensure comprehensive preventive care is documented.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding, enabling better tracking of bacterial disease screenings and their outcomes, which is essential for public health monitoring.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding, enabling better tracking of bacterial disease screenings and their outcomes, which is essential for public health monitoring.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding, enabling better tracking of bacterial disease screenings and their outcomes, which is essential for public health monitoring.

Resources

Clinical References

•
CDC Guidelines for Bacterial Disease Screening

Coding & Billing References

•
CDC Guidelines for Bacterial Disease Screening

Frequently Asked Questions

When should Z11.2 be used instead of a specific bacterial disease code?

Z11.2 should be used when the encounter is specifically for screening purposes and no specific bacterial disease has been diagnosed. If a bacterial disease is confirmed, the appropriate specific code should be used instead.

ICD-10 Z11.2 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of encounter for screening for other bacterial diseases.