Hi all,

When is it proper to report the history of cancer Z codes in the inpatient setting when there is no workup done? I thought I had read somewhere that you report the Z codes when it is or could be clinically significant to the patient’s current care only.

If a patient presents with acute appendicitis, confirmed on imaging and p/e and the patient has a history of prostate cancer- no current workup for cancer in the last 4 years- is it still suggested you report the Z code? The physician did not do any work up for the cancer history; it was simply listed in the patient’s PMH section.

This is specific to the inpatient pro-fee side.

Thank you!