subject: Radiology coding conference: Stay current on all ICD-9 2011 changes [print this page] Radiology coding conference: Stay current on all ICD-9 2011 changes
Anticipate changes to jaw pain and hemoptysis coding options.
Radiologist does not document a definitive diagnosis, you have to hunt down the right codes for the signs or symptoms that lead to the exam. And ICD-9 2011 wants to add some all-new options to the chase.
ICD-9 2011 wants to add some all-new options to the chase.
Advantage: These new codes may justify medical necessity for the diagnostic imaging services for the ordering provider. Look at these potential new options for jaw pain, hemoptysis, and more that could go into effect on October 2010 if the codes make it into the final version released this fall. For Chest Exams keep tabs on 786.3x. The most important of the proposed signs and symptoms codes may be the expanded listing for hemoptysis, which refers to coughing up blood.
One more proposed new code you may go for when the radiologist does not document specific findings is 784.92 (Jaw pain). The ICD-9 committee got a request to reindex jaw pain from 526.9 (Unspecified disease of the jaws) as jaw pain may be a symptom of a myocardial infarction and code 526.9 does not provide any information. As symptom is vital, the new specific code was proposed.
Come October 1, the ICD-9 2011 codes will go into effect. As such, to ensure you don't miss out on the new ICD-9 changes affecting your radiology practice, it's advisable that you go for a radiology coding conference. In fact, there's a radiology coding conference taking place in Orlando, FL this December which you can attend and make the most of.
