All codes within the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, Clinical Modification are what type?

The correct response is alphanumeric because all codes in the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM) consist of both letters and numbers. This coding system uses a letter followed by a series of numeric digits, allowing it to provide a more comprehensive classification of diagnoses. This variety of characters enhances the system's ability to convey complex medical information effectively.

Alphanumeric codes are essential for ensuring that the codes are descriptive enough to capture the nuances of different conditions, which is a critical aspect of health services management. The structure aids in categorizing diseases and health conditions, facilitating clearer communication among healthcare providers, insurers, and public health agencies.

Other options do not accurately describe the nature of ICD-10-CM codes: numerical codes would suggest they are only composed of numbers, symbolic codes imply the use of symbols instead of letters and numbers, and hexadecimal codes refer to a base-16 system primarily used in computing, which does not apply to ICD-10-CM.