In the inpatient setting, when a Z code is used as a diagnosis for a given procedure or a reason for the encounter, a procedure code is not necessary to identify that the procedure was performed.

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Z codes are used in the ICD-10 coding system to describe reasons for encounters such as a general medical examination or a vaccination. However, a procedure code (typically from the ICD-10-PCS or CPT code systems in the United States) is still necessary to specifically identify the procedure that was performed. Z codes do not replace the need for a procedure code.

In the Inpatient Setting, When a Z Code Is Used