National Correct Coding Initiative (CCI)

National Correct Coding Initiative (CCI)

 

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) use an automated edit system to control specific code pairs that can be reported on the same day. The National Correct Coding Initiative (NCCI or, more commonly, CCI) has been in place since January 1, 1996. The goals of CCI are to eliminate "Mutually Exclusive" code pairings and codes considered to be components of more comprehensive services or otherwise inappropriate to be delivered to the same patient on the same day.

The 59 modifier (Distinct Procedure) used to eliminate these denials of inclusive and exclusive.

 

The CCI is updated quarterly. New versions become effective January 1, April 1, July 1, and October 1 of each year.

Changes in CCI come from these sources:

•Changes in CPT or HCPCS codes or in CPT instructions

•CMS policy initiatives

•Comments from AMA, national or local specialty societies, Medicare contractor medical directors, providers, billing consultants or other interested individuals.