Diagnosis coding corner: Final 2018 diagnosis code set adds dozens of codes to the proposed set

Why This Topic Matters

Annual diagnosis code updates affect documentation review, charge capture, claims processing, reporting, and staff education. Understanding the scope of the final 2018 ICD-10-CM changes helps coding teams prepare for revised code families, new reporting options, and deletions before they take effect.

Article Sections

1. Final 2018 ICD-10-CM update overview

   Summarizes the size and timing of the final code update and contrasts it with the earlier proposed version. It also notes the expected release of supporting guidance and mapping files.

2. Middle phalanx fracture terminology revisions

   Describes a set of corrections affecting finger and toe fracture coding in specific fracture categories. The discussion explains why the terminology change mattered to coders.

3. Other new changes in the final ICD-10-CM update

   Reviews several major groups of new or expanded diagnosis coding topics in the final update, including substance remission reporting, myocardial infarction, heart failure, antenatal screening, and genetic counseling.

4. Additional changes announced in April

   Lists several other diagnosis code updates that were also part of the broader 2018 planning process. These include conditions in musculoskeletal, dermatologic, pulmonary, and gastrointestinal categories.

5. Code deletions in the final set

   Summarizes major deletion activity that differed from the proposed code set. It highlights several deleted groups of diagnosis codes and explains the general reason for one of the removals.

6. 5 steps to speed your ICD-10-CM update process

   Provides a brief workflow for using the CDC conversion table and related Excel resources to prepare for the update. It focuses on the administrative process for reviewing effective-date information and identifying deleted codes.