Health Information Management

New E codes require detailed documentation

HIM Connection, December 8, 2009

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We’ve all read or seen news reports about horrific accidents that occur when people send text messages while driving. Previously, no E code existed to assist with data collection regarding these accidents. Now, coders can report E011.1 (handheld interactive electronic device), which includes cell phones and communication devices, to describe the activity that caused these accidents.

Code E011.1 is one of 170 new E codes that help provide a more detailed narrative about a particular accident or injury. The codes became effective October 1.

The intent of many of these new codes is to facilitate transition to ICD-10 and to enhance research and evaluation of injury prevention strategies, says Shannon McCall, RHIA, CCS, CCS-P, CPC, CPC-I, CCDS. McCall is director of HIM and coding at HCPro, Inc., in Marblehead, MA.

Along with the changes come new ICD-9 guidelines and concepts for coders. “This year, it was a big deal for E codes. There are some brand-new concepts with E codes that we’ve never had to deal with before,” says Nelly Leon-Chisen, RHIA, director of coding and classification at the American Hospital Association in Chicago.

Note: For more information, visit the HCPro Web site. Subscribers toBriefings on Coding Compliance Strategies have access to this article in the December issue of the newsletter.



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