2017 ICD-10 Updates
Each year, CMS makes minor changes to the ICD-10-CM code set. Although these changes are referred to as the “2017” ICD-10 update, they are effective October 1, 2016. In some cases, CMS added new codes and retired others. In other cases, only the description associated with the code changed.
Eyefinity software and platforms are prepared to ease your transition to the new codes.
October 1 is the so-called “cutover date.” The updated codes apply only to claims with a service date of October 1 or later. Claims with a service date of September 30 or earlier will continue to use the 2016 codes. Billers should familiarize themselves with the changes. Billers should be prepared to verify that the correct codes are appearing on claims
Eyefinity has identified over 400 ICD-10 changes that apply to eyecare. Code changes to the following areas take effect on October 1, 2016:
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Retinal vein occlusion
- Age-related macular degeneration
- Primary open-angle glaucoma
- Amblyopia
- Postprocedural hematoma or seroma
We anticipate that CMS will modify ICD-10 codes slightly, effective October 1, every year.
Additionally, CMS is ending the flexibility it allowed during the first year of ICD-10 coding whereby CMS accepted more general sign/symptom and “unspecified” codes. “Unspecified” codes are still valid, but their use should be limited. CMS expects you to code exams to the best level of certainty known for each encounter. This means you’ll be required to code to the fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh digit when exam findings require.
This section includes: