he latest ICD-10 update is here. This blog will provide you a rundown of the latest codes, when they come into effect and codes that will be sunset. The roll out brings about changes across all major medical specialties. All payors will follow the new codes and updates whether it is Medicare, Tricare, Medicaid or private insurers.
Why is this update important?
The new codes and the level of specificity they come with reduce reimbursement complexity and lead to better clinical documentation. Utilizing the new codes enables medical practices to adhere to compliance requirements. There are have been several major updates over the last few years. And like all changes they are met with slight apprehension and confusion.
This blog details all the specialty-specific medical codes that will undergo a change in the latest roll out.
Code updates for dementia
There is going to be greater granularity in dementia codes going forward. The National Minority Quality Forum had requested an expansion of dementia ICD codes to denote the severity of dementia. The new ICD 10 update has specific dementia codes that indicate the seriousness of the condition.
400 new ICD 10 codes for the ob gyn specialty
Providers of maternal care or endometriosis have 400 more new codes that provide greater specificity. Updated codes will denote whether the medical condition is superficial or deep.
New codes to track fetal anomalies
The new set of ICD 10 codes will enable better tracking and enhanced treatment modalities for the identification and treatment of fetal anomalies.
The latest code updates for loss of consciousness
The latest 2023 ICD 10 consists of 100 plus ICD 10 codes for brain injuries. It covers injuries such as contusions, blast injures etc., The new codes will identify the duration and cause of loss of consciousness. The expansion of brain injury codes were requested by the American Academy Of Pediatrics.
New ICD 10 CM Diagnostic codes for short stature
Updated codes are now available for lack of growth in children. The expanded code sets will detail short stature NOS, physical retardation specifics and lack of growth. There will be new codes to describe short stature.
Meth overdose codes
A new coding category has been introduced to describe poisoning by methamphetamines and codes that denote adverse effects of meth use. It helps health authorities and providers to track meth overdose incidents.
Patient non-compliance with provider’s suggestions
New codes have been included in the latest ICD 10 release to detail patient’s non compliance with provider’s treatment plan or regimen. The existing medical classification has been expanded to include newer codes.
Is there a code for medical coding issues?
Unfortunately, no. We understand that healthcare providers want to spend more time with patients and less time on documenting and coding information. SolvEdge brings to the table 20+ years of across-the-board expertise and can help medical practices to improve coding accuracy, quality, and compliance. Our team of medical coders and certified code auditors minimize code re- submissions and improve the efficiency of your medical coding process. We specialize in professional coding and facility coding.
Note: Get a full list of the ICD 10 codes here
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