What is essential to review to ensure the correct code is selected?

To accurately select the correct code, it is crucial to review the descriptions of codes for main terms and subterms. This involves examining the specific language and guidelines provided in the coding manuals, such as the ICD-10-CM or CPT, which define what each code represents. Each code comes with detailed definitions that include specific conditions, procedures, or diagnoses, allowing coders to make informed decisions based on the clinical documentation provided by healthcare professionals.

Understanding the descriptions is key, as it helps ensure that the code chosen aligns with the patient's records and the services rendered. The coding system is designed to be structured and detailed, and by consulting the descriptions, coders can accurately capture the nuances of the patient's condition or the procedure conducted, leading to appropriate reimbursement and compliance with regulatory standards.