Medical professionals in the United State currently using ICD-9 medical diagnosis codes will need to update this classification system in the near future. The World Health Organization (WHO) has updated this system to include a better classification of recognized diseases and compatibility with today's medical data recording practices. Medical ICD-10 codes have been created to help better the healthcare community by offering a more comprehensive system of medical information that is consistent around the world. In order for the United States to maintain effective health information exchange on a more global level, it is important for medical facilities and medical personnel to start adopting ICD-10 codes.
As a recognized source for trusted health information, AHIMA provides a number of resources on medical ICD-10 codes to make this transition as easy and effective as possible. Please contact us today to learn more, or sign up and become a member of AHIMA online.
As the healthcare industry progresses and medical advancements are made each and every day, a system that can accurately represent health information across the nation and globally is needed. Over thirty years ago, the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) created ICD-9, however, since the 1970's ICD-9 medical diagnosis codes have become used in more ways than was originaly intended. The current ICD-9 diagnosis code set that is used in the United States not only lacks efficient specificity and detail, but it is also running out of room. ICD-9 currently has a limited structural design that cannot accommodate advances in modern medicine and future growth within the healthcare industry. ICD-9 also doesn't include the up to date disease processes, terminology or practice of medicine. Plus, ICD-9 causes a hindrance in comparing costs and outcomes and can't support the US transition to interoperable health data exchange.
Updating to ICD-10 codes will not only help streamline medical diagnosis codes globally, but it will also better support patient safety, bio-terrorism monitoring and overall improved public health, as well as support the effectiveness of various clinical conditions and technology. The transition to ICD-10 also helps in the aspect of research. Code analysis is an essential element in research, and ICD-10 diagnosis coding provides greater detail which can lead to the ability to uncover previously hidden relationships earlier on in the process. Please take a moment to read more about the benefits and value of ICD-10 codes, or for more information on the importance of medical ICD-10 codes, read our Field Test on medical ICD-10 coding.
Start the transition to medical ICD-10 coding today with help from AHIMA. Our informative resources can help create medical coding programs to properly educate the healthcare professionals in various medical facilities. We also offer a wide range of educational resources including articles, audio seminars and presentations on the transition to ICD-10 codes.
Contact AHIMA now and begin the education process to become compliant with medical ICD-10 codes.
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