Medical Coding V & E Codes

V Codes Overview

• V codes (V01-V91) denote encounters that are not primarily for disease or injury.
• Used as primary or secondary codes based on the context.
• Situations for V code application include:
  • Non-sick individuals seeking specific healthcare.
  • Patients needing aftercare for resolving injuries or chronic conditions.
  • Asymptomatic conditions influencing health status.
  • Newborns indicating birth status.

Primary Diagnosis Usage of V Codes

• Can be used as a primary diagnosis unless specified otherwise.
• Certain V codes are mandatory as primary diagnoses, mainly in emergency departments (e.g., V70.4, V71.x).
• Conditions specified in a "code first" note must be used as secondary.

Limitations on Primary Diagnosis

• V codes cannot always be used as a primary diagnosis, particularly when specified in coding guidelines.

Mandatory Nature of V Codes

• Official Coding Guidelines treat V codes similarly to other codes, except for E codes.
• Should not replace diagnosis codes that capture the condition noted by the V code.

Commonly Used V Codes in Emergency Medicine

• V71.4: Observation after an uninjured motor vehicle accident.
• V71.5: Examination following alleged rape for evidence collection.
• V70.4: Examination performed for medico-legal reasons.
• V55.1: Attention to an artificial opening for G-tube replacement.
• V62.84: Indicates suicidal ideation.
• V15.85: Exposure to hazardous body fluids.

E Codes Overview

• E codes categorize external causes of injuries or poisonings by intent and location.
• Not used as primary diagnosis codes, providing data for injury prevention strategies.

Use of E Codes

• Generally not mandatory but can be required in specific institutions or states.

Main Index Entries for V Codes

• Admission includes various V codes.
• Examination is covered under V72.
• Personal history coded as V10-V15; family history as V16-V19.
• Observation codes primarily utilize V71 and V89 for suspected conditions.
• Aftercare identified as V51-V58.
• Problem classifications use codes V60-V63.
• Status recorded under V40-V49.

Other Common Categories for V Codes

• Screening codes span V73-V82.
• Follow-up encounters noted with V67.
• Genetic susceptibility classified under V84.