What coding system is used to describe diagnoses in the United States?

The International Classification of Diseases (ICD) is the correct coding system used in the United States to describe diagnoses. This system provides a standardized way for healthcare providers to document and classify diseases and health problems, which is essential for accurate billing, epidemiological studies, and public health reporting.

The ICD is maintained by the World Health Organization (WHO) and is updated regularly to reflect changes in medical knowledge and technology. The latest version used in the U.S. is ICD-10, which includes extensive codes that allow for detailed descriptions of diagnosis and health conditions, improving both the quality of care and data collection.

In contrast, other systems serve different functions. Procedure Codes, for example, relate specifically to the categorization of medical procedures performed rather than diagnoses. Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) focuses on reporting medical procedures and services rather than diagnosing conditions, while Diagnostic Related Groups (DRG) are used primarily for hospital reimbursement, grouping patients based on their diagnoses and treatment needs. Thus, while each of these coding systems has its own important role in the healthcare system, the ICD is specifically dedicated to describing diagnoses.