There are no new, deleted or revised diagnosis codes in the April 1 update. But share the updated addendum, including the tabular addenda, with your coders and make sure your coding systems are updated.
The tabular addenda include changes to 13 chapters, many of which change “Excludes 1” notes — which means the excluded code or codes can’t be reported with the listed code — to “Excludes 2” notes, which means the excluded code is not part of the listed code.
For example, neoplasms of uncertain behavior (D37-D44, D48) will switch from Excludes 1 to Excludes 2 codes for D49 (Neoplasms of unspecified behavior).
You should also look for new “code also” notes, such as an instruction to code sequela of concussion (S06.0X- with seventh character with F07.81 (Postconcussional syndrome), when applicable.
In addition, the note to code underlying conditions such as diabetes mellitus (E08.39, E09.39, E10.39, E11.39, E13.39) first with H40.84 (Neovascular secondary angle closure glaucoma) will be revised to a code also note.