ICD 9 and ICD 10 codes: Know what differentiates them

One can find International Classification of Diseasesto the left of a decimal point, and one or two digits to
(ICD) codes on patient paperwork, including hospitalthe right of the decimal point. Some of these codes
records, physician records, and death certificates.are preceded by a V or E.
Today, most of the ICD codes used in the UnitedICD 10 code: On the other hand, ICD 10 codes are
States are version 9, which are called ICD 9 CMapproached differently and are broken down into
codes.chapters and sub chapters. They consist of a letter
They may be there in the current paperwork alright,plus two digits to the left of the decimal point, then one
but ICD-9 codes are being phased out through 2011disease to the right. Diseases are grouped by letters
and will be replaced by ICD 10 codes. As a result,here. For instance, if you are to code a malignancy
there will be a number of changes to the system,(cancer), you’ll need to place a C in front of the
including the codes. Most countries in the world havecode; similarly you’ll need to put a K to indicate
implemented the ICD 10 codes but the tough part isgastrointestinal problems.
that the transition is very expensive. Most AmericanIt’s being expected that ICD-10 will have better data
providers have not yet graduated to the ICD 10for evaluating and improving quality of care and will
system.provide codes for a more complete picture. So
There certainly are major differences between ICD 9let’s wait and watch what the coming times
and ICD 10 codes. The ICD-10 diagnosis and procedureunravel.
coding system is more complex than ICD-9 coding, butProvides the most complete guide for ICD-9 coding,
it will allow for a greater level of clinical detail and willHCPCS codes and all the daily coding requirements by
be better able to keep pace with advances inlooking of patients physician records, and death
technology.certificates.
ICD-9 code: Most ICD 9 codes have three characters