Medical Coding Practice Test

What does the section mark "§" indicate in ICD-9-CM coding?

1. Extra code needed for clarity

2. Required fifth digit

3. Primary diagnosis category

4. Optional coding information

The correct answer is: Required fifth digit

In ICD-9-CM coding, the section mark "§" typically indicates that a required fifth digit is necessary. Certain diagnosis codes in ICD-9-CM require additional specificity to accurately represent the condition being coded, and the fifth digit helps to provide this specificity. The presence of the section mark in this context denotes that the code must be accompanied by the appropriate fifth digit to ensure accurate coding and proper reimbursement.