Make sure your reimbursements are not disrupted when coding standards change Oct. 1, 2013 by using a process recommended by CMS.

Though the process itself is not required, CMS suggests this transition now, since all practices and payers will be using the new coding standard eventually.

Timeline leading to ICD-10

• Develop an implementation plan and impact assessment by June 2011.
• Prepare for implementation by June 2013.
• Begin “go live” preparation in January 2013, to be completed by September 2013.
• Post-implementation follow-up should run from October 2013 through December 2014.

What to do now
Focus on completing the first step by June by creating a steering committee of physicians, coders and others who will be impacted by the change.

An Internal Committee Can Help With The Learning curve
The committee will implement ICD-10 awareness education throughout the organization. This will include information on the differences between the old and new coding, as well as pointing out which deadlines to watch for. It also will assess the transitions impact on the practice. The size and scope of the committee depends on the practice. A solo practice could have only one member, while a larger group will have several on the committee. Also, make sure to assess each department and what changes ICD-10 is going to bring to that department.