ICD-10 codes are used in medical coding to classify and categorize diseases, injuries, and other health conditions. Within the ICD-10 coding system, there are three essential types of codes related to the progression of a condition: initial, subsequent, and sequela codes.
In this blog, we will provide comprehensive insights into the types of codes of ICD-10 and how it is helpful in CMS risk adjustment.
Initial Codes
In the ICD-10 coding system, an initial code is used to describe the first care encounter for a patient receiving active treatment for a specific condition. The initial code is assigned when a patient seeks medical attention for the first for a particular health issue. It indicates the beginning of the treatment or management process for that condition. Moreover, CMS risk adjustment for initial codes helps determine the severity and expected cost of care for that condition.
The initial codes in ICD-10 are identified through the presence of the letter “A” as the 7th character in the code. The 7th character, “A,” signifies an initial encounter.
For example, ICD-10 code S72.001A represents a neck fracture of the right femur. In this code, the letter “A” at the end indicates that it is an initial code for the first encounter or treatment of this fracture.
Initial codes are necessary to accurately document the patient’s medical history and monitor their condition’s progression. They are used for billing, statistical analysis, and research in the healthcare field.
Significance
- Identify the first encounter or episode of care for a specific condition.
- Help in tracking the onset and initial treatment of the condition.
- Assist in documenting the patient’s medical history accurately.
- Aid in determining the appropriate treatment plans and interventions for the initial condition.
- Enable healthcare providers to establish a baseline for monitoring the patient’s progress.
Subsequent Codes
In the ICD-10 coding system, a subsequent code describes encounters or episodes of care that occur after the initial encounter for a specific condition. These subsequent codes are used when a patient continues to receive treatment, management, or follow-up care for an ongoing condition. Subsequent codes in ICD-10 are identified by the presence of the letter “D” as the 7th character in the code. The 7th character, “D,” signifies a subsequent encounter.
It is important to note that subsequent codes do not apply to all conditions or encounters. They are typically used for chronic or long-term conditions that require ongoing care, follow-up visits, or recurring treatment.
For example, if a patient with a broken arm visits the doctor for a follow-up appointment, a subsequent code will indicate that subsequent encounter.
Significance
- Describe encounters or episodes of care that occur after the initial encounter.
- Indicate ongoing treatment, follow-up visits, or management of a chronic or long-term condition.
- Facilitate continuity of care by providing information about the patient’s ongoing healthcare needs.
- Help healthcare providers track the progress, treatment response, and overall condition management over time.
- Support accurate billing for subsequent encounters related to a particular condition.
Sequela Codes
Sequela codes in ICD-10 are identified by the presence of the letter “S” as the 7th character in the code. The 7th character, “S,” signifies a sequela. Sequela codes are used when a patient has experienced a previous condition or injury. As a result, they have ongoing conditions, complications, or impairments that persist even after the initial problem has been treated or resolved. These codes help document and track a condition’s long-term effects or outcomes. Sequela codes are essential for capturing the lasting impact of a previous condition on a patient’s health. They provide valuable information for healthcare providers, researchers, and insurers to understand the long-term consequences and effects of various health conditions or injuries.
Significance
- Describe encounters or episodes of care that occur after the initial encounter.
- Indicate ongoing treatment, follow-up visits, or management of a chronic or long-term condition.
- Facilitate continuity of care by providing information about the patient’s ongoing healthcare needs.
- Help healthcare providers track the progress, treatment response, and overall condition management over time.
- Support accurate billing for subsequent encounters related to a particular condition.
Conclusive Remarks
Overall, initial, subsequent, and sequela codes of ICD-10 CMS help ensure equitable reimbursement for healthcare providers, promote financial forecasting, and support population health management.
