ICD-10: Procedural Coding System vs. CPT Codes

Question:

Now that ICD-10 is going to happen I’m starting to look into it a bit more. I see there is a procedural coding system component. Are we going to have to use that instead of, or in addition to, CPT?

Answer:

Good Question:. The ICD-10 procedural coding system (ICD-10-PCS) is used by facilities (e.g., hospital) to code procedures. CPT codes are, and will continue to be, used by physicians (and other providers) to report professional services. The two systems are unique and very different. You will not be using ICD-10-PCS to report professional services; rather, you will continue to use CPT codes. You will, however, be changing from ICD-9-CM (ICD-9 Clinical Modification) diagnosis codes to ICD-10-CM diagnosis codes on October 1, 2015 for claims submitted to HIPAA-covered entities. So the good news is that the CPT coding system is not changing for physicians – only the diagnosis coding system will be different.

*This response is based on the best information available as of 04/23/15.