ICD-10

Term from Mental Health Counseling industry explained for recruiters

ICD-10 is the standard system used by healthcare providers to classify and code different health conditions and diagnoses. Think of it like a universal dictionary that helps mental health professionals, insurance companies, and healthcare facilities speak the same language when describing patient conditions. When you see this on a resume, it means the candidate knows how to properly document patient diagnoses for insurance billing and medical records. This system was created by the World Health Organization and is crucial for proper insurance reimbursement and maintaining accurate medical records.

Examples in Resumes

Utilized ICD-10 coding for accurate diagnosis documentation and insurance billing

Maintained compliance with ICD-10 guidelines while managing caseload of 50+ clients

Trained new counselors on proper ICD-10 diagnostic coding procedures

Typical job title: "Mental Health Counselors"

Also try searching for:

Mental Health Therapist Clinical Counselor Licensed Professional Counselor Behavioral Health Specialist Clinical Social Worker Psychiatric Nurse Mental Health Practitioner

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you handle complex cases where multiple ICD-10 codes might apply?

Expected Answer: A senior counselor should explain their process for evaluating symptoms, prioritizing primary diagnoses, and documenting supporting evidence for each code used. They should mention consultation with colleagues when needed and staying updated with coding guidelines.

Q: How do you train new staff members on proper ICD-10 coding?

Expected Answer: Should discuss creating training materials, mentoring processes, common mistakes to avoid, and methods for ensuring accurate documentation while maintaining ethical standards.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you ensure accurate ICD-10 coding while maintaining efficient client care?

Expected Answer: Should describe their system for documenting sessions, selecting appropriate codes, and balancing administrative duties with client care. Should mention using reference materials and staying updated with code changes.

Q: What process do you follow when insurance denies a claim due to ICD-10 coding?

Expected Answer: Should explain steps for reviewing documentation, verifying code accuracy, working with billing department, and making necessary adjustments while maintaining ethical standards.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic components of an ICD-10 code?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that codes typically start with letters followed by numbers, and describe how different categories relate to different types of conditions or diagnoses.

Q: How do you determine which ICD-10 code to use for a client?

Expected Answer: Should describe the process of assessment, documentation of symptoms, using diagnostic criteria, and consulting reference materials or supervisors when needed.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of ICD-10 code structure
  • Ability to look up common diagnostic codes
  • Documentation of straightforward cases
  • Basic insurance billing procedures

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Accurate coding for complex cases
  • Understanding of insurance requirements
  • Ability to train others on basic coding
  • Efficient documentation practices

Senior (5+ years)

  • Expert knowledge of diagnostic coding
  • Training and supervision of others
  • Complex case management
  • Quality assurance oversight

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Unable to explain basic diagnostic criteria
  • No experience with insurance billing
  • Lack of knowledge about documentation requirements
  • Unfamiliarity with ethical guidelines in diagnosis