Medical ICD-10 Codes

The International Classification of Diseases (ICD) is a system designed by the World Health Organization (WHO) to foster consistent diagnosis methods and accumulation of morbidity information throughout the world. This classification system is comprised of a set of medical diagnosis codes that represent the variety of diseases and conditions currently recognized by the medical community. Healthcare professionals use these diagnosis codes in an effort to maintain compatible medical information from hospital to hospital, and from country to country.

AHIMA understands the importance of maintaining the efficiency of this health information exchange. The introduction of ICD-10 codes in the United States will not only update our current coding system so that it is more accurate, but it will also provide room for growth and advancement in the healthcare industry. All medical personnel will need proper education on using these new codes. The variety of coding resources available from AHIMA can help comprehend all the newest updates to these medical diagnosis code sets.

The Medical Coding Transition

For over three decades, ICD-9 was the standard set of diagnosis codes used by the medical community. However, the creation of medical ICD-10 codes by the WHO has brought about a new standard for medical coding that will change the way many medical facilities handle billing, electronic health records and overall health information exchange. The appropriate knowledge base and understanding of these codes will be vital to their effective use within the medical community.

implementing a uniform medical coding system is to promote better compatibility when sharing health information. Learning how to use medical ICD-10 codes will allow hospitals to relay important health data consistently across different channels around the world, whether it be tracking the outcome of similar medical treatments or understanding complications associated with potential public health threats. ICD-10 codes provide healthcare professionals with the information they need to effectively diagnose diseases and understand recorded medical data.

In order to help medical professionals in the U.S. educate themselves about these new ICD-10 codes, AHIMA offers a number of great coding resources including webinars, whitepapers, and other educational materials including various ICD-10 coding books. With AHIMA, you can learn more about medical ICD-10 codes and the U.S. transition to this new classification system so that you are prepared and up to date on the latest and important information.

Contact us today for more information, or sign up for an online membership with AHIMA to get full access to all of the informative resources we have available.

Explore All of AHIMA's Coding Resources

While the official transition date for the U.S. to be compliant with medical ICD-10 codes is still a few years away, it is important that healthcare professionals educate themselves as soon as possible. The earlier this switch is made, the more time hospitals will have to familiarize themselves with these new codes. Please take a moment to browse our information regarding ICD-10 including our preparation tips and guidelines.

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