ICD-10: are you ready?

With the signing of H.R. 4302 ( https://beta.congress.gov/bill/113th-congress/house-bill/4302 ), the implementation date for using ICD-0-CM codes for coding and billing medical encounters in the United States is now scheduled for October 1, 2015. This conversion from using ICD-9-CM codes will be a tremendous change in the way providers and practices deliver health care and could be financially devastating to those who are not properly prepared. Proper preparations will require educating virtually everyone involved in almost every aspect of patient care with a sufficient understanding of ICD-10 language, coding structure, and rules. Vital to this conversion is accurate documentation in the medical records by providers, knowledge of insurance coverage (local and national) rules, and acceptance of those codes by electronic health record systems, clearinghouses, and payors. Early preparation, appropriate education, and proper testing will minimize the financial impact.