Currently, the United States uses the ICD code set, Ninth Edition (ICD-9), originally published in 1977. Since implementation of ICD-9, the medical field has undergone much advancement in diagnosis and treatment, and more codes are needed than ICD-9 can provide. The ICD code set, Tenth Edition (ICD-10) will be implemented on October 1, 2014. ICD-10 will provide the much needed space for expansion of codes, more specific data than ICD-9, and will better reflect current medical practice. The additional detail within ICD-10 codes will better inform healthcare providers of patient history and will improve the effectiveness of case management and coordination of care.
ICD-10 will have an effect on all medical and hospital claims that contain a diagnosis, and will be required for all providers covered by the Health Insurance Portability Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), no matter what level of coverage carried by the patient. All healthcare professionals and facilities must be aggressively involved or risk nonpayment for services provided on or after the ICD-10 implementation date of October 1, 2014.