Is 10.1.2014 a Date set in Stone ?
Much to the consternation of physicians, according to the department of health and human services, it most certainly is. After frequent postponements, much hullabaloo and divided opinions, a date has been finally announced to make the transition.
Though the granularity in codes can lead to more clarity and a more structured coding system, most codes physicians fume, are never going to be used.
An Expensive Change !
Change comes with its own baggage. Now healthcare providers will have to make major changes to the infrastructure and workflow of their practice, to accommodate the revised coding system. One of the biggest roadblocks is to train staff and set up a testing schedule, amidst busy workdays. The slew of recent changes in healthcare informatics and billing regulations is going to leave physicians with little time to catch their breath.
What Defines ICD 10 ready ?
This is a question that stares at the face of every healthcare provider today. Most find working with codes that are not going to be of any purpose or use till 2014 a drain of time and human resources. But, the time to start gearing up for the change is, now !
Small Steps can make Huge Strides.
Small steps can shorten the path to adapting to an entirely new coding system. One easy way for medical practices, to stay ahead of the curve is to have a database of ICD10 codes that they’re most likely to use. This will get the “55,000 more codes” scare out of the way.
Assess the Impact of ICD 10 .
Performing a realistic and comprehensive assessment of the impact that ICD10 is going to have on your practice is essential. Draw a bucket-list of the aspects of your workflow that are going to undergo major change during the transition, and start a testing plan on them. Educate staff members or if you work with a vendor request for a detailed plan of action to deal with the onslaught of codes.
Being quick and informed can beat those deadline blues, and make your practice truly ICD-10 ready ! Whether you are planning on creating a training program for your team or ask your ICD-10 medical coding services company to set up an implementation plan, do it today !
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