What is the purpose of Z codes for screening?

The purpose of Z codes for screening is to document testing for diseases in asymptomatic individuals. These codes are specifically designed to capture the reason for encounters that are not due to a specific illness or injury but rather for preventive measures, such as screening tests. The use of Z codes allows healthcare providers to report situations where patients are being evaluated for potential health issues even though they currently show no symptoms. This includes routine screenings like mammograms, colonoscopies, or blood tests aimed at early detection of diseases.

The coding system encourages preventive care and health maintenance, allowing for better resource allocation in healthcare settings. By accurately documenting screenings with Z codes, healthcare providers can track compliance with preventive guidelines and improve overall population health outcomes.