The newest version of the International Classification of Diseases - the standard diagnostic tool for epidemiology, health management and clinical purposes - will be instituted across the U.S. on Oct. 1, 2015.
"This new scheme for medical coding is much more granular than the current coding, ICD 9," said Joseph Rogers, MD, vice chair for clinical practice. "It will require more-specific documentation linked to selected diagnoses."
The number of ICD diagnoses will increase from ~13000 to ~68000.
The PDC and PRMO have begun extensive preparation for this change. Over the next several weeks, PRMO will lead training sessions for the faculty, in Division and Department meetings. These sessions will be recorded for those unable to attend these instructional meetings. Later in the Summer, a mandatory online module will provide additional instruction and reinforcement of the changes. Specialties with high impact will receive additional training.
"It will be important for all Department of Medicine faculty and staff who submit patient charges to be versed in these changes," said Dr. Rogers.
Adequate preparation will improve clinical efficiency and minimize the impact on our practice, he said.
Find additional resources about ICD-10 from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
For a clear, whimsical description of ICD-10, watch this video: