Medical Coding Guide - Learn How to Code

2027 ICD-10-CM Proposed Code Updates: What Medical Coders Need to Know

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released the 2027 Hospital Inpatient Prospective Payment System (IPPS) Proposed Rule on April 14, 2026, introducing several important ICD-10-CM and ICD-10-PCS coding…

Jitendra M.Sc CPC May 12, 2026

ICD 10

ICD-10-CM Coding for Artificial Openings (Stomas): Status, Attention & Complication Coding Guide

Artificial openings, also known as stomas, are surgically created openings that connect an internal organ to the outside of the body. These openings may be temporary or permanent and are…

Jitendra M.Sc CPC May 10, 2026

Medical coding

New HCPCS Codes for Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulators : Complete Coding Guide

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) introduced six new HCPCS Level II codes in the April 2026 Integrated Outpatient Code Editor (I/OCE) Version 27.1. These updates are effective…

Jitendra M.Sc CPC May 4, 2026

ICD 10

ICD-10-CM Code E11.A: Type 2 Diabetes in Remission – Complete Coding Guide

As of October 1, 2025, ICD-10-CM introduced a new code—E11.A (Type 2 diabetes mellitus in remission)—bringing a major shift in how coders capture improved patient outcomes. This update recognizes that…

Jitendra M.Sc CPC April 27, 2026

ICD 10

ICD-10-CM Coding for Alcohol & Drug Use Disorders: Complete Guide for Medical Coders

Accurate coding of alcohol- and drug-related disorders in ICD-10-CM requires more than just identifying the substance involved. Coders must carefully interpret provider documentation, clinical terminology, and coding hierarchy to assign…

Jitendra M.Sc CPC April 24, 2026

ICD 10

COPD with Acute Exacerbation & Respiratory Failure: ICD-10-CM Coding Guide (2026)

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, affecting nearly 10% of adults over age 40. For medical coders, one of the most challenging…

Jitendra M.Sc CPC April 22, 2026

ICD 10

ICD-10-CM Heart Failure Coding Guide: Types, Ejection Fraction & Accurate Code Selection

Heart failure coding in ICD-10-CM can be complex—especially when documentation includes terms like reduced ejection fraction, preserved EF, or mid-range EF. For medical coders, understanding how clinical classification aligns with…

Jitendra M.Sc CPC April 20, 2026

Medical coding

Biopsy vs Excision Coding: A Complete CPT Guide for Medical Coders (2026 Update)

Understanding when to code a procedure as a biopsy versus an excision or other treatment is essential for accurate CPT coding, compliance, and reimbursement. Misinterpreting the intent of the procedure…

Jitendra M.Sc CPC April 16, 2026

ICD 10 Medical coding

ICD-10-CM Fracture Coding: Complete Guide to 7th Character Selection for Medical Coders

Accurate fracture coding in ICD-10-CM is critical for proper reimbursement, compliance, and clinical documentation. One of the most important—and often misunderstood—components is the 7th character, which communicates both the type…

Jitendra M.Sc CPC April 15, 2026

Medical coding ICD-10-PCS

Understanding the Device Character in ICD-10-PCS Coding

Over the past decade, the ICD-10-PCS code set has consistently required seven characters to accurately report inpatient procedures. Each character represents a distinct component of the procedure performed. Within the…

Jitendra M.Sc CPC April 10, 2026