What is the primary difference between ICD and CPT codes?

The primary difference between ICD and CPT codes lies in their specific purposes within the healthcare system. ICD codes, which stands for International Classification of Diseases, are utilized to classify and code diagnoses, symptoms, and other health-related issues. Their main function is to provide a standardized way to document and report diseases and conditions for various analytical purposes, including public health tracking and epidemiology.

On the other hand, CPT codes, or Current Procedural Terminology codes, are designed to describe medical, surgical, and diagnostic services and procedures provided to patients. These codes are essential for billing and are used by healthcare providers to report these services to insurers and for reimbursement purposes.

This distinction is crucial because it clarifies how each code set contributes to different aspects of patient care and administrative processes. While ICD codes focus on the 'what' of healthcare—what diagnosis a patient has—CPT codes focus on the 'how'—how the healthcare provider is treating that diagnosis. This proper categorization ensures that healthcare providers receive appropriate payments and that patient records accurately reflect the services rendered.