Know about the ICD-9 codes for easy diagnosis identification.
The ICD-9 stands for the International Classification of Diseases. It is a standardized medical coding tool that is used throughout the health care industry. ICD-9 coding creates diagnosis and procedure codes for doctors and other health care industry professionals to read and recognize when working with patients. Knowing about the ICD-9 codes can help you interpret medical progress notes, read medical charts and keep you well-informed about the conditions of patients.
The Codes Change
Approximately 13,000 ICD-9 codes exist, but the codes change from time to time. Occasionally, codes are added or retired from the ICD-9 coding list, and those who use the codes in the medical field, such as practitioners and billers, must stay current with the official ICD-9 list to ensure that coding is carried out correctly. Billing an insurance carrier with a retired ICD-9 code can lead to denied claims and an administrative burden for correcting them. Incorrect codes also lead to inaccurate medical files and notes, which is a quality- and risk-management issue. Health care workers as well as the general public may request an official coding change, according to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. The individual petitioner must explain her recommendation and submit all related material prior to a scheduled federal code modification meeting.
ICD-9 Codes Generalize
The ICD-9 codes are generalizations or summaries of conditions, diagnoses or procedures, but they are not specific or detailed descriptions. For this reason, it may be necessary for you to occasionally combine two or more codes from the ICD-9 list in order to make up a complete diagnosis or procedure. Additionally, the ICD-9 coding procedures lack "laterality," meaning the codes themselves do not distinguish between the right and left sides of the body. For instance, the same code would be used whether an individual sprained the left wrist or the right wrist.
You Can Become A Certified Coder
If you wish to turn ICD-9 coding into a career, you can become a certified coder. Coder certification programs are available to train students and test them on their knowledge of the codes. Those who pass the final coding exam receive their coder certification, which renders them a professional coder. With a certified coder background you can work in health care quality management, data validation, medical compliance, claims, billing and medical records.
ICD-Codes Are Being Upgraded
Effective October 1, 2013, the ICD-9 is being transitioned or upgraded to the ICD-10, which is an improved set of codes that are more detailed and specific. While the ICD-9 has an average of 13,000 codes, the ICD-10 will have 68,000 codes and longer characters. It will use alpha characters and have a more flexible process for adding new codes to the list. Terminology is also expected to change, according to the American Medical Association. This means that certified coders will have to go back for a re-certification.
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