Disease Coding
Disease coding is the process of assigning specific codes to various diseases and health conditions. These codes are used in medical records, billing, and research to ensure accurate communication about a patient's health status. The most common coding systems include the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) and the Current Procedural Terminology (CPT).
Accurate disease coding is essential for healthcare providers, insurers, and researchers. It helps in tracking disease prevalence, managing healthcare costs, and improving patient care. Proper coding also ensures compliance with regulations and facilitates the collection of health statistics for public health initiatives.