ICD-10 permits the systematic analysis, interpretation and comparison of morbidity data collected in different areas. The specified purpose of the ICD-10 is to provide a means of classifying diagnoses and is defined as a system of categories to which morbid entries are assigned according to established criteria.

This information standard is published under Section 250 of the Health and Social Care Act 2012. An Information Standards Notice (see below) provides an overview of scope and implementation timescales, and the Specification and Implementation Documents provide further detail for those who have to implement the information standard.