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ICD-10 Update:

Now's the Time to Preview the New ICD-10 Codes for 2012

You may not be familiar with the ICD-10 code set yet, but you can keep an eye on how it's growing.

The ICD-9 coding system isn't the only one growing. CMS recently posted the 2012 ICD-10 code update which includes added, deleted, and revised codes for this year, plus offers information on the new diagnosis coding system, which will be mandatory for all providers as of Oct. 1, 2013.

For example: In 2011, ICD-10 codes for hemorrhoids were found in the I84 category (Diseases of veins, lymphatic vessels, and lymph nodes, not elsewhere classified), which spanned from I84.0 (Thrombosed hemorrhoids) through I84.6 (Residual hemorrhoidal skin tags). Now, however, hemorrhoids are classified with "Diseases of the digestive system (K00-K945)," which is found in chapter 11 of ICD-10.

You'll find the ICD-10 codes for hemorrhoids now assigned to codes K64.0 (First degree hemorrhoids) through K64.9 (Unspecified hemorrhoids). Many other ICD-10 codes follow suit with new and revised code assignments, so you should update your list of the top 30 most common codes that you have been developing in preparation for the ICD-10 transition.

For more on the 2012 ICD-10 changes, visit www.cms.gov/ICD10/11b14_2012_ICD10CM_and_GEMs.asp.