Coding: Your ICD-10 Honeymoon Is Over

Why This Topic Matters

Readers need to know that the temporary leniency around ICD-10 coding was ending and that many specialties would face more specific reporting requirements under the updated code sets. The article helps practices anticipate coding, documentation, and denial-management changes tied to the annual ICD-10 update process.

Article Sections

1. CMS ICD-10 grace period ending

   Introduces the end of the temporary flexibility period and frames the shift toward stricter review of ICD-10 claims. Discusses why providers were seeing limited denials and why that environment was changing.

2. Why there are so many new codes for 2017

   Explains the backlog of ICD-10 updates and the general reasons new and revised codes were being released. Covers broad examples of code expansion and replacement patterns.

3. Listen Up: New Codes for Hearing Loss & Tinnitus

   Summarizes upcoming ICD-10 changes affecting otolaryngology, with emphasis on more specific diagnosis reporting and documentation needs. Notes the general direction of hearing loss and tinnitus code expansion.

4. Look Out for Eye Care Codes

   Reviews upcoming ICD-10 changes relevant to ophthalmology and optometry. Covers the broad increase in laterality and specificity for eye-related diagnosis coding.