What should NOT be included as a diagnosis in coding?

In the context of coding for medical diagnoses, "rule out conditions" should not be included as a diagnosis. This is because a "rule out" term indicates that a condition is being considered but has not been definitively confirmed. Instead, coding should focus on confirmed diagnoses that reflect the patient's condition at the time of treatment, ensuring that the medical record accurately represents the patient's health status and the reasons for the healthcare provided.

Including only confirmed diagnoses helps maintain clear communication among healthcare providers and ensures that billing practices align with established coding guidelines, which require clear and definitive diagnoses for reimbursement. Other types of diagnoses, such as chronic conditions or symptoms experienced, may be coded under appropriate guidelines as they provide necessary information about the patient's health status. However, "rule out" suggestions do not meet the criteria for a confirmed or established diagnosis and cannot be coded as such.