Medical Coding Practice Test

Where is the Tabular List of ICD-9-CM organized?

1. In alphabetical order

2. By patient age

3. By physician specialty

4. In categories, subcategories, and fifth-digit subclassifications

The correct answer is: In categories, subcategories, and fifth-digit subclassifications

The Tabular List of ICD-9-CM (International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision, Clinical Modification) is the official list of codes used for reporting diagnoses and procedures in healthcare settings in the United States. It is organized in a hierarchical manner, with categories, subcategories, and fifth-digit subclassifications. This allows for a more specific and detailed classification of conditions and diagnoses. Option A, alphabetical order, is not used because it may not accurately reflect the relationship between codes. For example, related conditions may not be grouped together. Option B, patient age, is not used because it is not a relevant factor in determining a diagnosis or procedure code. And option C, physician specialty, is also not used as it may not accurately reflect the condition or the procedure being performed. Overall, the hierarchical organization of the Tabular List allows for a more comprehensive and accurate classification of healthcare data.