Screening for rheumatoid arthritis

This code indicates a screening encounter specifically for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in an asymptomatic individual. It is used when a patient undergoes tests or examinations to detect the presence of RA without exhibiting any signs or symptoms of the disease.

Use this code when a patient is screened for rheumatoid arthritis due to family history, participation in a research study, or as part of a general health screening program where RA is a specific focus. It is appropriate when the intent of the encounter is purely preventative or for early detection in the absence of clinical suspicion.

• Do not use this code if the patient presents with symptoms suggestive of rheumatoid arthritis; in such cases, code the signs/symptoms or a definitive diagnosis.
• This code is for screening only; if a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis is made during the encounter, code the definitive diagnosis instead.
• Always sequence this code as the primary diagnosis when screening is the sole reason for the encounter.