The ICD-10 coding system is updated annually by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) in the United States. These updates may include revisions to existing codes, new codes, and deleted codes.
Some common reasons for changes to ICD-10 codes include:
- Advances in medical knowledge and technology: New codes may be added to reflect new diseases, conditions, or treatments that were not previously classified.
- Changes in healthcare policies and regulations: Updates may be made to align with changes in healthcare policies and regulations.
- Feedback from healthcare professionals: Feedback from medical coders, physicians, and other healthcare professionals may lead to changes to existing codes or the addition of new codes.
Medical coders must stay informed about the latest updates and changes to the ICD-10 coding system to ensure accurate and timely reimbursement for healthcare services. It’s important to regularly check with the WHO and CMS for updates and attend continuing education courses to stay current with changes in the field.