Since October 1, 2015, the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, Clinical
Modification (ICD-10-CM) was integrated into U.S. medical practices. This monumental
transition seemingly occurred rather unceremoniously, despite significant opposition and
reservations having been expressed by the provider community. In prior publications, we have
described various survival strategies for interventional pain physicians.
The regulators and beneficiaries of system – CMS, consultants, and health information
technology industry are congratulating themselves for a job well done. Nonetheless, this
transition comes at an immeasurable financial and psychological drain on providers. However, a
rude awakening may be making its way with expiration of initial concessions from government
and private payers.
This manuscript provides a template for interventional pain management professionals with
multiple steps for seamless navigation, including descriptions of the most commonly used
codes, navigation through ICD-10-CM manual, steps for correct coding, and finally, detailed
coding descriptions for various interventional techniques.
Key words: ICD-9-CM (International Classification of Diseases, Ninth revision, Clinical
Modification), ICD-10, ICD-10-CM (International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision),
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), Health Information Technology
(HIT)