When a bilateral ICD-10-CM code is not provided and the condition is bilateral, __________.

The correct option emphasizes the importance of specificity and accuracy in coding practices, particularly when dealing with bilateral conditions. When a condition is bilateral but only a unilateral code is available, it's crucial to assign separate codes for both the left and right sides. This method ensures that the ICD-10-CM codes reflect the nature of the condition accurately, which is vital for proper billing, clinical documentation, and data collection purposes.

By using separate codes for each side, healthcare providers can accurately report the specific nature of the patient's condition, which can impact treatment decisions, insurance reimbursements, and patient outcomes. This practice aligns with coding guidelines, which encourage thorough documentation and specificity to best represent the patient's clinical situation.

In contrast to other choices, such as using a CPT modifier or simply generating a query, assigning separate codes is an established coding practice that avoids ambiguity and reinforces precise coding, rather than creating potential coding errors or delays.