How is the NCHS involved in the process of changes and modifications to the ICD-9-CM codes?
Response:
In the United States, the The National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMMS) are the government agencies responsible for overseeing changes and modifications to the ICD-9-CM International Classification of Diseases, 9th Edition, Clinical Modification). ICD-9-CM is based on the World Health Organizations (WHO) 9th edition of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-9).
The NCHS and CMMS share in overseeing changes to ICD-9-CM. The NCHS is a branch of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). NCHS coordinates change requests for diagnosis coding. CMS coordinates change requests for ICD-9-CM Volume 3 procedural codes used by hospitals.
Anyone can request diagnosis code changes, but most requests are made by medical specialty organizations. When the request for ICD-9-CM codes meets certain submission criteria, it is put on the agenda for the ICD-9-CM Coordination and Maintenance Committee that meets twice a year. The proposed changes are then presented at these meetings and if accepted the changes become effective October 1st.
Hope this answers your question.
Thanks, Gina