Encounter for screening for human immunodeficiency virus

This code signifies an encounter where the primary purpose is to screen a patient for the presence of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). It is used when there are no signs or symptoms of HIV disease, and the patient is undergoing testing as part of a routine health check, risk assessment, or public health initiative.

This code is appropriate for asymptomatic patients undergoing routine HIV screening, such as during an annual physical, prenatal care, or as part of a sexually transmitted infection (STI) screening panel. It also applies to individuals seeking testing due to potential exposure or risk factors, but who are not yet exhibiting symptoms.

• Do not use this code if the patient has a confirmed diagnosis of HIV; instead, use codes from category B20 or Z21.
• If the patient presents with symptoms suggestive of HIV, this code is generally not appropriate; instead, code the signs and symptoms.
• This code is for the screening encounter itself, not for the results of the screening test.