Primary Care Coding Alert

Question: What rules apply to reporting V codes with E/M office visits? Can we report screening codes as a primary diagnosis?

Connecticut Subscriber

Answer: You can report some V codes as a primary diagnosis with an E/M visit, but others are only used as additional diagnoses. Symbols beside codes designate the category for each V code. For example, ICD-9 directs you to list V70.3 (Other medical examination for administrative purposes) as a first diagnosis; submit V69.0 (Problems related to lifestyle; lack of physical exercise) as a primary or additional diagnosis; only report V15.82 (Other specified personal history presenting hazards to health; history of tobacco use) as an additional diagnosis.

Tip: Check the guidelines section of your ICD-9 book for a V code table outlining when you should report each diagnosis.