Ohio Pharmacy Law Practice Test

Who is exempt from including the ICD-10-CM code in controlled substance prescriptions?

1. Pharmacists

2. Veterinarians

3. Nurses

4. Physician's assistants

The correct answer is: Veterinarians

The correct answer is that veterinarians are exempt from including the ICD-10-CM code in controlled substance prescriptions. This exemption exists because the ICD-10-CM coding system, which is primarily used for diagnosing and billing purposes in human medicine, does not directly apply to veterinary practices. When veterinarians prescribe controlled substances, they are typically focused on the health and treatment of animals rather than adhering to the same coding requirements that apply to human medical practitioners. Pharmacists, nurses, and physician's assistants, on the other hand, are involved in human healthcare and are expected to follow the regulations that require the inclusion of ICD-10-CM codes for controlled substances. This is part of the broader healthcare quality assurance and billing processes, ensuring proper documentation of diagnoses and treatment plans for human patients. Thus, the exemption for veterinarians reflects the unique nature of veterinary medicine and its regulatory environment.