CMS released new I&D coding guidance under Article A56766. Changes take effect October 1, 2025.

Published: October 15, 2025
Source: CMS Article A56766
Category: Billing & Coding Updates

Dermatology Billing News Alert

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has issued new guidance impacting coding for Incision and Drainage (I&D) of Abscess of Skin, Subcutaneous and Accessory Structures.

These changes, released under Article A56766, will take effect October 1, 2025, in conjunction with the annual ICD-10-CM update.

Key Coding Changes

Deleted Codes (Group 1):
S30.1XXA, S30.1XXD, S30.1XXS

New Codes Added (Group 1):
S30.11XA, S30.11XD, S30.11XS
S30.12XA, S30.12XD, S30.12XS
S30.13XA, S30.13XD, S30.13XS

Additional ICD-10-CM Codes Added:
L02.217, L02.227, L03.31A, L03.32A

Codes with Description Changes:
L02.212 and L02.222

Effective Date

October 1, 2025

Why It Matters

Dermatology providers performing incision and drainage procedures should review these changes to ensure diagnosis coding remains accurate after the annual update. Incorrect or outdated ICD-10 codes can result in claim denials or unnecessary delays in reimbursement.

IEBC recommends updating internal coding tools, superbills, and EHR code libraries prior to the effective date. Run a quick denial-risk search in your EHR for the deleted S30.1XX* codes and replace them before Oct 1.

Reference

CMS Article: A56766 – Billing and Coding: Incision and Drainage (I&D) of Abscess of Skin, Subcutaneous and Accessory Structures

Stay Informed

IEBC continuously monitors CMS and payer updates that impact dermatology billing and coding.
For ongoing alerts and compliance guidance, visit the Resources Section of our website.