The WSJ details the upcoming coding “upgrade” to ICD-10, with exponentially more codes for doctors to learn. It’s going to be a huge problem, since many physicians can barely grasp the current system.

To understand the complexity, the number of codes for an angioplasty rises from 1 to 1,170. There are 45 codes for a sprained ankle alone.

The process is expensive, and will likely lead to more initial billing errors:

Some medical-industry officials also are concerned that consumers could see, at least initially, an increase in billing errors. That can lead, for example, to overcharging of patients, or an insurer denying payment for a claim because it was submitted with an incorrect code. Some officials also expect an increase in billing fraud and more delays in payments to doctors and consumers.

Dr. Wes doesn’t expect the transition to be pretty, saying “this coding extravaganza will cost time, money and resources as physicians and their patients scramble to unlock the intricacies of the scheme to assure their patients receive health care.”

topics: coding, icd-10