Which code set is specifically designed to describe medical, surgical, and diagnostic services?

The Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) code set is specifically designed to describe medical, surgical, and diagnostic services. CPT codes provide a uniform language for reporting and documenting these services and are used by healthcare providers to communicate accurately about the procedures and services performed during patient care. This standardization facilitates billing, reimbursement, and the tracking of medical services, making it an essential tool in health services management.

In contrast, the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) mainly focuses on diagnosing diseases and health conditions rather than detailing the specifics of the procedures performed. The Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) includes codes for certain services not covered by CPT, such as durable medical equipment, but it is broader in scope and not exclusively focused on medical or surgical procedures. Diagnosis Related Group Codes are primarily related to inpatient hospital services for billing purposes, categorizing patients based on their diagnosis rather than detailing the services rendered. Thus, CPT is the most precise choice for describing medical, surgical, and diagnostic services.