What is the meaning of provider in the ICD-10-CM guidelines?
The International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Edition, Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM) is a medical classification list by the World Health Organization (WHO). It is used to assign codes to various diseases, signs and symptoms, abnormal findings, complaints, social circumstances, and external causes of injury or diseases. One term that frequently appears in the ICD-10-CM guidelines is “provider.” But what exactly does it mean?
In the context of the ICD-10-CM guidelines, a “provider” refers to any individual or entity that delivers healthcare services to patients. This can include physicians, nurses, physician assistants, therapists, technicians, and other healthcare professionals. Additionally, providers can also be hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities. The term encompasses a broad range of individuals and organizations that play a role in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of patients’ health conditions. Understanding the meaning of “provider” is crucial for accurate coding and reporting of medical data, as it directly impacts the quality and consistency of healthcare information.
