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Effective October 1, 2019, there are two new ICD-10 codes for atrial fibrillation specified as “chronic” or “permanent”. Previously non-CCs, these are now CCs.
| Type of Afib | ICD-10 code | CC status |
| Paroxysmal | I48.0 | Non-CC |
| Long-standing persistent | I48.11 | CC |
| Persistent | I48.19 | CC |
| Chronic, unspecified | I48.20 | CC |
| Permanent | I48.21 | CC |
| Unspecified | I48.91 | Non-CC |
“Chronic” atrial fibrillation (I48.20) is a new code that is a non-specific term indicating that atrial fibrillation of any type has been present for more than three months.
“Permanent” atrial fibrillation (I48.21) is a new code indicating a patient who takes rate control medication with no plans for conversion to sinus rhythm.
In these situations, unspecified atrial fibrillation is commonly documented. This represents a new query opportunity to further specify the type for CC status.
Download the complete tip, Atrial Fibrillation: 2020 ICD-10 Code Updates.