VAR Blog
Reaction: Concern/cautious optimism from IT leaders on possible ICD-10 delay
Friday, Mar 23, 2012
Yesterday the acting director for CMS, Marilyn Tavenner stated that the agency will take another look at the October 2013 deadline for implementing ICD-10. I immediately had numerous red flags fly up in my mind. First off, the agency has only agreed re-examine the timeline (some sources are erroneously reporting that they are actually changing the deadline). That doesn't mean that anything will change about the deadline. It may not change at all. It may only move out 90 days. The magnitude of effort and complexity necessary for most healthcare organizations to make the conversion is quite large. While it may not be in the realm of implementing a completely new EHR, it may be just as daunting if not done correctly and effectively. For example, most hospitals may have as many as 40 other programs that utilize the ICD codes, meaning it will be imperative to understand how those applications are being modified to accept the new taxonomy and what timeline has been projected for each.
The AMA has been the biggest critic of the 2013 deadline, but the AHA has not called for a extension. I wouldn't bet on a change to the deadline.
-Patti Dodgen, CEO - Hielix
Category: Editorial
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