CMS Posts 2026 Disease Classification Update
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) posted an update on the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM), which is used to code and classify medical diagnoses. The 2026 ICD-10-CM files contain the codes that should be used for resident stays from October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026. The update includes:
- 2026 Conversion Table: This table identifies ICD-10-CM codes that will be inactive as of October 1, 2025, and their replacement codes. Timely correction of inactive codes for current residents as of October 1 is essential to avoid claim rejections for October 2025 billing.
- 2026 Code Descriptions in Tabular Order.
- 2026 Addendum files.
- 2026 Code Tables, Tabular and Index.
At this time, the FY 2026 ICD-10-CM Coding Guidelines have not been posted.
The ICD-10-CM updates will also be reflected in the FY 2026 PDPM ICD-10 Mapping tables once they are posted by CMS, which typically occurs after the final rule is released later this summer. MDS coordinators should download a copy once available to ensure accurate HIPPS codes for reimbursement under the Patient Driven Payment Model. As a reminder, it is essential for coders in nursing facilities to have the current ICD-10 Manual and Coding Guidelines to ensure accurate codes for billing and reporting.