A survey of hospital CIOs conducted by the Ann Arbor, Mich.-based College of Healthcare Information Management Executives (CHIME) shows that a majority haven’t heard from their IT vendors about their plans for updating products to comply with the new ICD-10 code sets, and the related updated X12 standard, Version 5010 and NCPDP D.0 for HIPAA-related transaction standards.
According to the research, many respondents are concerned about the amount of time they will have to test transactions with business partners and how those tests will be paid for. The deadline for using the 5010 transaction sets has been set for April 1, 2010, while ICD-10 codes must be set by Oct. 1, 2011. While CIOs believe the proposed changes will enable more accurate coding for diagnoses, improving the accuracy of reimbursement and providing other benefits to the industry, many are concerned their organizations will be rushed into preparing for the transition, says CHIME.
To more effectively prepare for the changes, CHIME is encouraging hospitals and health systems to develop educational materials,, brief senior management on the anticipating changes, form ICD-10 industry work groups, and coordinate with other healthcare organizations.
