Question

Certain Z codes may be reported only as the principal or first-listed diagnosis. The exception is when multiple encounters occur on the same day and the medical records for the encounters are combined.

Which of these codes can be reported only as a principal diagnosis for an inpatient when reporting situations with malignant neoplasms? Select all that apply.

A. Z08
B. Z15.01
C. Z51.0
D. Z51.12
E. Z51.5
F. Z80.0

Answer 1

Certain Z codes related to malignant neoplasms can only be reported as the principal diagnosis for an inpatient.

Step-by-step explanation:

When reporting situations with malignant neoplasms, certain Z codes can be reported only as the principal or first-listed diagnosis for an inpatient. The codes that fall under this category are:

• A. Z08 - Encounter for follow-up examination after completed treatment for malignant neoplasm
• C. Z51.0 - Encounter for antineoplastic chemotherapy
• E. Z51.5 - Encounter for antineoplastic immunotherapy
• F. Z80.0 - Family history of malignant neoplasm

These codes can only be reported as the principal diagnosis for an inpatient, except when there are multiple encounters on the same day, and the medical records for the encounters are combined. In such cases, the codes may be reported as additional diagnoses.