Are preliminary (suspected, possible, rule out) diagnoses codeable?

Preliminary diagnoses, also known as suspected, possible, or rule-out diagnoses, are typically not codeable according to coding guidelines. This is primarily because coding systems, such as ICD (International Classification of Diseases), require a definitive diagnosis to assign a specific code. A preliminary diagnosis reflects an initial assessment or suspicion rather than a confirmed condition. Therefore, without confirmation through further testing or evaluation, these diagnoses do not meet the criteria for coding. This practice ensures accuracy in medical records and billing, as codes are intended to reflect established medical conditions rather than potential or unconfirmed cases.