FY 2026 ICD-10-CM Code Updates
Instructor
Cari Greenwood, RHIA, CCS, CPC, CICAGet ready for the FY 2026 ICD-10-CM diagnosis coding changes with HIAlearn’s self-paced course—now available. This course provides a comprehensive review of new, revised, and deleted ICD-10-CM diagnosis codes effective October 1, 2025, along with updates to the ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting. You’ll also gain insight into the reasons behind the changes, including the clinical rationale for select significant updates.
With approximately 90 minutes of content and 1.5 CEUs for both AHIMA and AAPC, this course is designed for coders working in inpatient, outpatient, and professional fee settings. By the end, you’ll have the clarity and context needed to apply FY 2026 changes accurately and confidently.
Key Takeaways
- Increase in Code Volume: FY 2026 introduces 487 new codes, nearly double the number added in FY 2025.
- Major Areas of Change: The most significant increases are in Chapter 12 (Skin & Subcutaneous Tissue), Chapter 17 (Congenital Malformations), Chapter 19 (Injury & Poisoning), and Chapter 21 (Factors Influencing Health Status).
- Guideline Revisions: Extensive updates to the ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting, including new guidelines and revisions for improved clarity and specificity.
- HIV Coding Focus: One new HIV guideline added and eight existing guidelines revised, with reorganization and renumbering for easier navigation.
- New Guideline Additions: Introduction of guidance for multiple sites coding, type 2 diabetes mellitus in remission, and expanded Z code categories for status, aftercare, miscellaneous, and SDOH.
- Alphabetic Index Changes: New and revised terms to reflect added codes and reclassified conditions, including a shift of certain congenital conditions to other chapters.
- Tabular List Updates: Expanded specificity within existing codes and instructional note changes, including updates to Code First, Code Also, Use Additional Code, and Excludes notes.
- Implementation Date: All updates go into effect October 1, 2025, requiring coders to review and apply changes accurately to remain compliant.
FAQs
Why are there so many more new ICD-10-CM codes for FY 2026 compared to last year?
FY 2026 includes 487 new codes, nearly double the number added in FY 2025. Many of these additions reflect expanded specificity in areas like skin and subcutaneous tissue, congenital malformations, injuries, and factors influencing health status. These changes aim to improve accuracy and capture greater clinical detail in patient records.
What are the most significant areas impacted by the FY 2026 ICD-10-CM updates?
The largest code increases occur in:
- Chapter 12: Diseases of the Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue (116 new codes)
- Chapter 19: Injury and Poisoning (213 new codes)
- Chapter 17: Congenital Malformations (23 new codes)
- Chapter 21: Factors Influencing Health Status (26 new codes)
These chapters include many of the most impactful changes coders will need to understand and apply accurately.
When do the FY 2026 ICD-10-CM changes take effect, and how should coders prepare?
All updates are effective October 1, 2025. Coders should review new and revised codes, guideline changes, and instructional note updates well in advance to ensure accurate, compliant coding practices. Enrolling in HIAlearn’s FY 2026 ICD-10-CM course will provide detailed guidance and examples to support a smooth transition.
About Our Medical Coding Courses
HIAlearn, powered by Health Information Associates (HIA)—a leader in medical coding and auditing for more than three decades—offers a flexible, online education platform designed for today’s coders. With a growing catalog of AHIMA and AAPC-approved coding courses, HIAlearn supports both beginners and experienced coders looking to build confidence, accuracy, and CEU credits.
Courses are available across various coding types including CPT, E/M, ICD-10-CM, and ICD-10-PCS, and are designed for multiple specialties including inpatient, outpatient, profee, and CDI.
To stay up to date, coders can explore our Coding Updates hub for the latest ICD-10-CM, ICD-10-PCS, CPT, and IPPS changes. HIAlearn also supports organizations with group discounts and scalable team access, promoting accuracy, compliance, and continuous professional development across departments.
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