When a practitioner does not document an exact diagnosis, outpatient coding rules require that unclear diagnosis be coded using the ________ that led the patient to seek care, until an absolute diagnosis is made.

Outpatient Coding

The process of coding the diagnosis, treatment, and procedures for patients who receive services without being admitted to a hospital.

Unclear Diagnosis

A situation where medical test results and symptoms do not clearly indicate the exact nature or cause of a patient’s illness.

Absolute Diagnosis

A definitive identification of a disease or condition, leaving no doubt as to its nature, often established through specific tests or criteria.