AHIMA Proposes Revisions to New Group of ICD-10-PCS Codes
AHIMA is asking CMS to consider its suggestions during the process of finalizing a new crop of ICD-10-PCS and ICD-10-CM codes later this year.
By - Six months after the healthcare industry managed to make its initial transition to ICD-10 with few significant issues, CMS is planning to lift its freeze on the addition of new codes.
Approximately 5000 new codes will join the existing ICD-10-CM and ICD-10-PCS code sets by October 1, 2016, announced rule makers earlier this year, and AHIMA has some suggestion for what those codes should be.
In commentary sent to CMS earlier this month, AHIMA recommends certain changes to the ICD-10-PCS code set, including additions, changes, and clarifications on codes related to joint replacements, spinal fusions, valve replacements, and surgical procedures of the spine.
“AHIMA is most appreciative that CMS has released a list of the new ICD-10-PCS codes scheduled to go into effect October 1, 2016,” the organization said in its letter.
“We recognize that producing this list early was no small feat, but on behalf of AHIMA and our members, we thank you.”
“Given the large volume of codes going into effect this October, this early release will provide the healthcare industry much needed additional time for preparation and implementation.”
AHIMA’s suggestions for changes to proposed ICD-10-PCS codes include the following specific procedures:
• SPY Fluorescence Vascular Angiography (FVA)
• Oxidized Zirconium on Polyethylene Bearing Surfaces for Hip and Knee Arthroplasty
• Spinal Fusion with Nano-Textured Surface
• Intravenous Administration of Andexanet Alfa
• Insertion of Endobronchial Coils
• Hematopoietic Cell Transplant Donor Type
• Minimally Invasive Aortic Valve Replacement
• Branched Endograft Repair of Common Iliac Aneurysm
• Intravenous Administration of Defitelio (defibrotide)
• Administration of VISTOGARD (uridine triacetate)
• Insertion of Spinal Bracing and Distraction System
• Application of Biologic Wound Matrix
• Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Return (TAPVR)
AHIMA has also recommended changes to a handful of ICD-10-CM codes, including those related to postoperative seroma and congenital sacral dimple.
Growing concern over the spread and impact of the Zika virus is also on AHIMA’s agenda. In addition to the creation of a code capturing Zika infection, “we recommend that future consideration be given to creating additional Zika-related codes, such as exposure to Zika and history of Zika infection, since the proposed new code would only capture patients with a current, active Zika infection,” AHIMA wrote.
To read AHIMA’s full commentary on the ICD-10-PCS codes, please click here. The document detailing AHIMA’s suggestions related to the ICD-10-CM codes is available here.
