The US healthcare system has outgrown the current ICD-9-CM diagnosis classification, and is the only major country in the world that has not migrated to ICD-10. There are a number of factors to consider, changes to electronic systems and other processes that will be affected by the transition to a new diagnosis coding classification.
ICD-10-CM bears a strong resemblance to ICD-9-CM, but there are changes to code reporting guidelines, restructuring of the classification, increased complexity of codes, new code laterality and an increase in inclusion notes, exclusion notes and other coding requirements.
While the reality of ICD-10-CM will not occur until October 1, 2013 the time to prepare is now! Diagnosis coding changes affect many aspects of the facility or physician practice and developing a timeline for education and implementation is essential.
