How often are HCC codes updated?

HCC codes, or Hierarchical Condition Categories, are updated annually. This annual update process allows for the incorporation of new medical codes, modifications to existing codes, and adjustments based on changes in clinical practice and guidelines. The updates are crucial for maintaining accurate coding that reflects current health conditions and treatment methodologies.

Because HCC codes are used primarily for risk adjustment in Medicare Advantage plans and other healthcare reimbursement systems, timely updates ensure that healthcare providers are accurately compensated for the level of care they provide based on the patients' health status and complexity. The annual schedule provides a structured timeframe for healthcare organizations and providers to implement these changes effectively, ensuring that coding practices remain relevant and consistent across the healthcare system. This regular updating also facilitates the ongoing training of coding professionals to stay current with the latest guidelines and coding standards.