Use these 170 replacement codes for 137 codes set for deletion next year

Why This Topic Matters

Annual code deletions and replacements can affect claim accuracy, reimbursement, and continuity of billing. The article helps coding professionals quickly identify where major code-set changes occurred and which service categories were affected.

Article Sections

1. Overview of the 2005–2006 Medicare coding crosswalk

   Introduces the purpose of the crosswalk and the scope of the annual coding changes. Summarizes the kinds of services affected and the general nature of the replacement-code updates.

2. Deleted codes as of Jan. 1

   Lists code deletions and replacement options for a wide range of services. Covers multiple categories including surgery, imaging, therapy, evaluation and management, and drug administration.

3. Source note and pricing information

   Provides the publication source and explains the pricing conventions used in the chart. Clarifies the general meaning of symbols attached to displayed payment amounts.