ICD 10 codes: Explore your testing options

The deadline for the ICD-10 implementation date may seem far away

, but smart coders will have already started gearing up for it from now.

To get ready for ICD-10, you should begin identifying medical record documentation improvement opportunities. Although ICD-10 won't need you to improve your documentation, the higher quality your documentation is, the easier it will be to avoid using unspecified codes and the faster you will find the precise ICD-10 code.

That apart, you can start learning the basic structure, organization, and unique features of ICD-10, and refresh your knowledge of biomedical concepts so that you won't be bowled over by more enhanced code definitions and descriptions.

For example: One caller asked if she can begin testing and using ICD-10 codes before the implementation date if her practice is ready.

The answer is yes. You could certainly do some internal testing of ICD-10 and also of your 5010 system. However what you cannot do is submit ICD-10 codes to any payers for services carried out before October 1, 2013 deadline. You can even work with software vendors ahead of time in order to confirm that no issues will exist with claims submission using ICD-10.

Yet another caller asked, whether CMS will revise the CMS-1500 form to accommodate ICD 10's longer codes. Starting January 1, 2011, CMS will be ready to accept claims using the 5010 format, which has a lot of improvements, one of which is that it'll accept more characters for your codes. In fact, at that point, 5010 will be the new universal claim format.

And to prepare yourself for this change, a one-stop medical coding website will play a handy role. The ICD-10 Bridge onboard such a website will play a key role in helping you make a smooth transition. All you need to do is sign up for one today!

ICD 10 codes: Explore your testing options

By: James Smith

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