Centralized morbidity coding: the International Classifcation of Health Problems in Primary Care

After an extensive field trial, the International Classification of Health Problems in Primary Care (ICHPPC) was published in 1975 to meet the unique coding requirements of Family (General) Practitioners. Its employment has become widespread, but some difficulties persist. ICHPPC was developed principally by and for peripheral coders. Its application in a centralized coding scheme is not entirely satisfactory because of the difficulties of coding vague or inconsistent reports. These problems are illustrated and caution is recommended in the interpretation of morbidity rates reported from such systems. Suggestions are presented for revisions to ICHPPC that, along with modifications to data management system, could help alleviate the difficulties.