Each year, the ICD-10-CM code set is updated with code additions, deletions, and revisions. These changes reflect advancements in clinical knowledge, emerging public health trends, and the ongoing need for precision in documentation and billing. 

The finalized FY 2026 updates (effective October 1, 2025) include:

• 487 additions
• 28 deletions
• 38 revisions

Key Themes in the 2026 Updates

Specificity for Improved Accuracy

Many of the new codes allow providers to capture a more granular level of detail in their diagnosis coding. This level of higher specificity allows for a more detailed capture of conditions with details such as laterality and depth.

Expansion in Social Determinants of Health (SDOH)

CMS continues to emphasize whole-person care by expanding Z-codes related to housing instability, food insecurity, and social support systems—areas increasingly linked to patient outcomes and value-based payment models.

Behavioral and Neurological Health

Several updates reflect the growing need to capture behavioral health and neurodevelopmental conditions with greater precision. These include new codes for obsessive-compulsive disorders, speech disturbances, and Tourette’s syndrome.

Health Equity and Data Utility

The ICD-10-CM code set plays a key role in health equity initiatives. The 2026 updates continue to improve how we track disparities and patient needs at the population level, particularly through SDOH and race/ethnicity-related expansions.

What This Means for Providers, Coders, and Healthcare Organizations

It’s crucial to understand which codes are being added, removed, or revised to have further specificity. By being proactive with understanding and communicating these changes to your organization, you can help monitor and reduce unnecessary denials.

Understanding the annual updates to the ICD-10-CM system is crucial for accurate coding, documentation integrity, and revenue cycle success. These changes are not just administrative. They’re designed to reflect the evolving healthcare landscape and to support better patient care.

Now is the time to:

1. Review upcoming changes that impact your specialty
2. Educate your clinical and coding teams
3. Adjust documentation templates to support appropriate and accurate coding

Published: 12/02/2025

_{^{Readers should not act upon information presented without individual professional consultation.}}

_{^{Any federal tax advice contained in this communication (including any attachments): (i) is intended for your use only; (ii) is based on the accuracy and completeness of the facts you have provided us; and (iii) may not be relied upon to avoid penalties.}}