In an interview with Medscape, Kevin Weinstein, MBA, vice president of revenue cycle management technology company ZirMed, discussed three challenges facing physicians in regards to ICD-10 implementation.
1. Preparedness. Mr. Weinstein pointed out that physicians must have a plan in place to allow them to handle the changes associated with the new coding system. "Have they done the workflow analyses?" he said. "Have they mapped what their processes are today?"
2. Education. Mr. Weinstein said education also represents a significant change for physicians, who will have to undergo documentation training in preparation for the transition to ICD-10. Physician practices will also have to coordinate ICD-10 education for the coders and billers on their staff.
3. Tools. Mr. Weinstein said physicians will need to research the technologies necessary to properly use the ICD-10 code sets. "From a timing perspective, the deadline for conversion is [Oct. 2013]," he said.
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1. Preparedness. Mr. Weinstein pointed out that physicians must have a plan in place to allow them to handle the changes associated with the new coding system. "Have they done the workflow analyses?" he said. "Have they mapped what their processes are today?"
2. Education. Mr. Weinstein said education also represents a significant change for physicians, who will have to undergo documentation training in preparation for the transition to ICD-10. Physician practices will also have to coordinate ICD-10 education for the coders and billers on their staff.
3. Tools. Mr. Weinstein said physicians will need to research the technologies necessary to properly use the ICD-10 code sets. "From a timing perspective, the deadline for conversion is [Oct. 2013]," he said.
Related Articles on Coding, Billing and Collections:
Surgery Center Coding Guidance: 2012 CPT Changes to 62310, 62319
Senators Raise Questions on Oversight for Felons Enrolling in Medicare
Thousands of Wisconsin Residents Could Lose Health Coverage in July