Which coding system is primarily used for reporting inpatient services?

The coding system primarily used for reporting inpatient services is ICD-10-PCS. This system was specifically developed for coding procedures performed in inpatient hospital settings. ICD-10-PCS codes enable healthcare providers to document complex medical procedures accurately, providing detailed information on the surgical and diagnostic services performed during a patient’s stay in a hospital.

The structure of ICD-10-PCS codes, with their alphanumeric format, allows for a high level of specificity, which is essential for inpatient services that may involve multiple interventions or treatments. This detailed coding helps in various aspects such as billing, data collection for medical research, and tracking patient outcomes, all crucial in a hospital context.

Other coding systems like ICD-10-CM focus primarily on diagnosis and are used mainly for outpatient services and reporting. CPT codes are utilized for outpatient procedures and services, mainly in the physician's office. HCPCS Level II is used for billing non-physician services, supplies, and equipment, but does not cover inpatient services comprehensively. Thus, ICD-10-PCS stands out as the appropriate choice for inpatient procedure reporting.