Diseases of external ear

Historical Changes

• •FY 2025: Routine maintenance updates with minor terminology clarifications
• •FY 2024: Enhanced specificity requirements for certain code ranges
• •FY 2023: Updated documentation guidelines for improved clarity

Upcoming Changes

• •Proposed updates pending review by Coordination and Maintenance Committee
• •Under consideration: Enhanced digital health integration codes

Implementation Guidance

• •Review all FY 2026 updates for H60-H62 codes before implementation
• •Always verify the most current codes in the ICD-10-CM manual
• •Ensure clinical documentation supports the selected diagnosis codes
• +3 more guidance items...

Key Usage Points:

• •Always code to the highest level of specificity.
• •Use additional codes to identify any associated underlying conditions.
• •Consider the use of external cause codes to provide additional detail.
• •Remember to code first any associated underlying disease.
• •Use combination codes when necessary to accurately represent the condition.

When to Use:

• ✓When a patient presents with an external ear infection.
• ✓If a patient has a disorder of the tympanic membrane.
• ✓When a patient has a noninfective condition of the external ear.
• ✓If a patient has a perforated eardrum due to a disease of the external ear.
• ✓When a patient has a complication from a disease of the external ear.

When NOT to Use:

• ✗When the condition is related to the middle or inner ear.
• ✗If the condition is a congenital anomaly of the ear.
• ✗When the condition is a result of an injury or trauma.
• ✗If the condition is related to hearing loss or deafness.
• ✗When the condition is a neoplasm of the ear.

Common Documentation Errors:

• ⚠Not providing enough detail about the condition
• ⚠Failing to document the cause of the condition
• ⚠Not including information about related symptoms or complications
• ⚠Not specifying the type and severity of the condition