What does the note "not included here" imply in ICD-10-CM coding?

The note "not included here" in ICD-10-CM coding clearly indicates that the condition or diagnosis referred to is not part of the code it accompanies. This means that while the main condition may be addressed by the code, there are specific exclusions that should be understood by the coder. The presence of this note clarifies that the excluded condition is recognized but is intentionally separated from the scope of the reported code.

This ensures that coders do not mistakenly assume that the excluded condition falls under the umbrella of the primary diagnosis when it does not. Understanding these nuanced distinctions is crucial for accurate coding and can significantly impact patient management and billing processes.

In contrast, conditions that may occur together, additional information, or the relationship between included and excluded conditions are not what the "not included here" note typically signifies. This specificity highlights the importance of careful review and adherence to coding guidelines in clinical documentation and billing accuracy.