decisionhealth Newsletters, Coder Pink Sheets - 2015 Issue 6 (June)
Don’t select ICD-10 codes from GEMS, index – you must consult tabular list
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Article Overview
This short guidance article is aimed at coders preparing for ICD-10 use, especially those working with orthopedic and injury-related cases. It explains the general limitations of ICD-9-to-ICD-10 mapping tools, the need to confirm codes in the ICD-10 tabular list, and the importance of checking for laterality and other code structure elements. The article also mentions drug-related coding references as part of the broader ICD-10 lookup process.
Why This Topic Matters
It helps readers understand the boundaries of reference tools used during ICD-10 code selection and why a complete review of the official code list is necessary for accurate documentation review and coding workflow.
What You Will Learn
- Why code crosswalks and mapping tools are not substitutes for ICD-10 code selection
- Why the ICD-10 index must be verified against the tabular list
- How ICD-10 code structure can require additional characters or specificity
- Why drug-related reference tables require confirmation in the official tabular section
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Coding auditors
- Coding educators
- Orthopedic coding staff
- Staff transitioning to ICD-10
Codes Discussed
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