ICD-10 vs. CPT vs. HCPCS: What’s the Difference?br br In medical billing and coding, understanding the difference between ICD-10, CPT, and HCPCS is essential. ICD-10 (International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision) codes are used to document diagnoses—the “why” behind the patient’s visit. CPT (Current Procedural Terminology) codes describe the services and procedures performed during the visit, such as exams, surgeries, or lab tests. Meanwhile, HCPCS (Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System) expands on CPT by covering supplies, durable medical equipment, and non-physician services, such as ambulance rides or prosthetics. Each code set serves a specific purpose in the reimbursement process, and using them correctly is crucial to ensure claims are paid accurately and on time.