ICD-10-CM FAQ
When do ICD-10-CM codes go into effect?
ICD-10-CM codes go into effect on October 1, 2014
What is the difference between ICD-9-CM and ICD-10-CM?
| ICD-9-CM | ICD-10-CM | |
| Number of codes | 13,000 | Over 68,000 and can accommodate approximately 155,000 codes |
| Number of Chapters | 17 Chapters E codes & V codes: in supplemental chapters | 21 Chapters E Codes & V codes: in chapter 20 and 21 |
| Number of Characters | 3 to 5 Characters · Codes in Chapter 1-17: numeric · E codes & V codes: Character 1 is alpha and character 2-5 are numeric | 3 to 7 Characters · Character 1 is alpha · Character 2 is numeric · Character 3-7 are alpha or numeric |
| Code Structure | First 3 digits: Category of code Second 2 digits: Etiology, Anatomic site Manifestation | First 3 digits: Category digits Second 3 digits: Etiology, Anatomic site, Severity(Some codes use “x” as a place holder for characters 4-6 when needed) 7th digit: Extension Digit (used in obstetrics, external causes of injury and musculoskeletal injuries) |
| Code Details | 1. Non Specific 2. Lacks Laterality 3. Initial and Subsequent Encounters not defined 4. Combination Codes are Limited | 1. Very Specific 2. Includes laterality when needed 3. Initial and subsequent encounters are defined 4. Combination Codes are frequent |
What are the major advantages to ICD-10-CM?
- Extra characters mean extra details can be added to a diagnosis, such as laterality;
- The ability to specify which encounter (initial, subsequent, or sequelae) the diagnosis is associated with or external causes contributing to a diagnosis;
- Combination codes exist to simplify coding conditions that commonly occur together;
- Injury codes are grouped by anatomical site instead of the category of injury;
- ICD-10-CM codes use current medical terminology and descriptions are more specific;
- Allows for better statistical analysis and research; and
- The majority of the world utilizes ICD-10. Adopting the new code set will bring greater global continuity to medicine.
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