What does the presence of a dash at the end of a code in the index imply?

The presence of a dash at the end of a code in the index indicates that the code requires additional digits for it to be considered complete. This is a standard practice in coding systems, such as the ICD coding used in healthcare, where a dash signifies that the code is not final and additional characters are needed to accurately define the diagnosis or procedure.

For example, a code ending with a dash might indicate that it is a category that cannot stand alone and must be followed by more specific information, such as additional numbers that denote specific conditions or variations related to that category. This ensures precise coding, which is vital for proper classification and billing in medical records. By understanding this convention, coders can accurately capture and report clinical data, avoiding potential errors associated with incomplete codes.