When is the ICD manual typically updated?

The ICD (International Classification of Diseases) manual is typically updated annually, with the updates commonly released in October. This schedule aligns with the World Health Organization's efforts to ensure that healthcare professionals worldwide have access to the most current and relevant coding standards for diagnosis and health management. By holding updates in October, organizations can implement changes in their systems effectively at the start of the new year, allowing time for training and workflow adjustments.

Other update frequencies mentioned, such as biannual or quarterly updates, do not reflect the established practice of the ICD, which has consistently followed the annual update model for over a decade. This annual update is vital for maintaining the relevance of the coding system in addressing evolving healthcare practices and technologies.