Primary Care Coding Alert

Question: One of our new patients is retired from the military, which came up during a recent encounter. I think I’m supposed to report this kind of thing, but which code should I use?

New Jersey Subscriber

Answer: This is a timely question because the ICD-10 2024 updates include a new code that will allow you to report a history of military service. You’ll be able to start reporting Z91.85 (Personal history of military service) starting Oct. 1, 2023.

Unfortunately, though, there isn’t currently a personal history code that fits this well. As you are aware, the ICD-10 Official Guidelines state that history codes are acceptable on any medical record regardless of the reason for the visit, but currently the closest code for a veteran is Z91.82 (Personal history of military deployment). ICD-10 states this code is intended for use with an “individual (civilian or military) with past history of military war, peacekeeping and humanitarian deployment (current or past conflict)” or someone who has “returned from military deployment.” That doesn’t necessarily describe a general history of military service, so it’s best to not report Z91.82 unless the doctor’s notes also include applicable details.