The switch to ICD-10 coding standards is mandatory for all HIPAA-covered entities that use electronic medium for claim transactions. Ideally, this standard does not apply to those which will operate via paper claims. But, there are many non-covered entities that are making the transition to ICD-10 coding standards, even though they are not required to…

Computer Assisted Coding or CAC has gained importance with the ICD-10 implementation road map underway at most healthcare providers. The CAC software will help preserve accounts receivable and accounts payable resulting in accurate, compliant medical coding and reimbursements. Traditionally this process was performed by coders, but with the recent changes in the coding standards, and…

HL7 interface engine is an integration platform specifically for the healthcare industry and its numerous legacy systems. The data from these legacy systems are under many circumstances non compatible with other systems in the network and at many times with the payer systems. HL7 also provisions for integration with outsourced services like teleradiology, hence lowering…

While there are dozens of minor distinctions between ICD-9 and ICD-10 the three fundamental changes are: There is expanded detail for many conditions (e.g., viral hepatitis has been expanded from ICD-9 070, a single 3-digit category, to ICD-10 B15-B19, five 3-digit categories Conditions were transferred around the classification (e.g., hemorrhage has been moved from the…

Centre of Medicaid Services conducted a ICD-10 testing routine to smoothen claims processing prior to the October 1, 2014 deadline. March 3 -7 2014 was the week wherein a limited number of providers could conduct ICD-10 testing through local MACs (Medicare Administrative Contractors). This brief period worked as a good dry run to practice the…

The new ICD-10 coding system is to be implementation in the coming 7 months, and there are many assumptions which can cause an unfavorable result of this implementation process. Here we try to look at the common beliefs which have plagued this implementation process Myth: HHS will grant an extension beyond Oct. 1 2014 Fact:…

The ICD-10 code set is not just a simple update to the ICD-9 code set. They are both different in the fundamental structure and concepts, and it is important to understand the differences between them for a smooth transition from ICD-9 to ICD-10. Differences between ICD-9 and ICD-10 ICD-10 codes are very specific as opposed…

ICD-10 CM diagnosis codes and ICD-10 PCS procedure codes for patient services will be effective as of October 1 2014. Many providers have been actively getting their software upgrades in place from vendors, but they have not been communicating with all the parties involved to ensure that the transition process proceeds smoothly. Many key stakeholders…