The International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM) is a crucial system for coding diagnoses and procedures in healthcare. Within this system, code Z11.52 plays a specific role. This code is designated for “Encounter for screening for COVID-19.” Understanding this diagnosis code is essential for healthcare providers, medical coders, and anyone involved in the healthcare system.
What is ICD-10-CM Code Z11.52?
ICD-10-CM code Z11.52 is a billable and specific code used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes. This means that when a healthcare encounter is primarily for the screening of COVID-19, this code can be used to document the reason for the visit and for processing insurance claims. The code is part of the 2025 ICD-10-CM edition, which became effective on October 1, 2024. It’s important to note that while Z11.52 is the American ICD-10-CM version, other international versions of ICD-10 code Z11.52 may have variations.
US flag. ICD-10-CM code Z11.52 for COVID-19 screening is used in the United States.
Key Aspects of Diagnosis Code Z11.52
Several key characteristics define the use and application of Z11.52:
- Billable/Specific Code: Z11.52 is not a general or non-specific code. It is designed for precise documentation and is accepted for billing and insurance claims related to COVID-19 screening encounters.
- POA Exempt: Z11.52 is exempt from Present On Admission (POA) reporting. POA is relevant for inpatient admissions, indicating conditions present at the time of admission. Since Z11.52 refers to screening encounters, typically outpatient, POA reporting is not applicable.
- Annotation Back-References: The code Z11.52, like many ICD-10-CM codes, has annotation back-references. These references link to other codes and guidelines within the ICD-10-CM system. These annotations may include “Applicable To,” “Code Also,” “Code First,” and “Excludes” notes, which provide further instructions and context for using Z11.52 correctly in conjunction with other codes when necessary. These annotations ensure accurate and comprehensive coding in various clinical scenarios.
Code History and Context within ICD-10-CM
The code Z11.52 has been consistently maintained within the ICD-10-CM system. Reviewing the code history reveals “No change” annotations from 2016 through to the 2025 edition. This stability indicates the continued relevance and consistent application of this code for COVID-19 screening encounters over the years.
Z11.52 is categorized under the broader code group Z11, “Encounter for screening for infectious and parasitic diseases,” and the more specific category Z11.5, “Encounter for screening for other viral diseases.” This placement within the ICD-10-CM hierarchy provides context and shows its relationship to other screening codes for infectious diseases. Understanding this hierarchy helps ensure the correct code is selected based on the specific encounter and screening purpose.
In conclusion, ICD-10-CM diagnosis code Z11.52, “Encounter for screening for COVID-19,” is a vital tool for accurately documenting and classifying healthcare visits specifically for COVID-19 screening. Its specific nature, billable status, and consistent application history make it an important code within the medical coding and billing landscape.
