What is an ICD-9 code?
International Classification of Diseases (ICD-9) coding is a statistical classification system that arranges diseases and injuries into groups according to established criteria. Most ICD-9 codes are numeric and consist of three, four or five numbers and a description. Example: An ICD-9 code for a broken arm is fractured radius, 813.81. In addition, injuries are also coded according to their location on the body. So, the code for the broken arm would indicate whether it was the left, right or bilateral (both) arms. In addition, an injury site may be listed if necessary. Site locations apply to injuries to the fingers, teeth and toes. How does BWC use ICD-9 codes? Since ICD-9 codes identify the type and nature of the injury, we use them to determine appropriate medical treatment. For example, for a torn medial meniscus, a serious knee injury, surgery would likely be an appropriate type of treatment. However, if the allowed condition in the claim is a sprained knee, surgery would not be a
