Question

multiple choice question

______ codes must be used as of the date they go into effect, and invalid (deleted) codes must not be used.

new
revised
obsolete
invalid

Explanation:

Analyze the question stem

The question asks to identify which type of codes must be used as of the date they go into effect, while invalid (deleted) codes must not be used. The sentence structure is: "_______ codes must be used as of the date they go into effect, and invalid (deleted) codes must not be used."

Evaluate the options

• New: New codes are released during annual updates (such as ICD-10-CM or CPT updates) and must be implemented and used as of their effective date. Deleted codes become invalid on that same date and can no longer be used. This matches the statement perfectly.
• Revised: Revised codes are existing codes that have had their descriptions or guidelines modified. While they must be used in their revised form, the contrast with "invalid (deleted) codes" specifically highlights the introduction of "New" codes versus the removal of old ones.
• Obsolete: Obsolete codes are those that are no longer in use (deleted), so they cannot be used.
• Invalid: Invalid codes are those that are deleted or not coded to the highest level of specificity, so they must not be used.

Apply medical coding guidelines

According to standard ICD-10 Coding Guidelines and billing regulations, New codes must be used as of the date they go into effect, and invalid (deleted) codes must not be used. This ensures accurate reporting and prevents claim rejections due to outdated code sets.

Answer:

• New (Correct answer)
• Revised
• Obsolete
• Invalid