Introducing ICD-10

UPDATE: As ICD-10, after delay after delay, is finally looming in the near future, we're updating some previous posts with vital information about this new system and what you need to do before the deadline for ICD-10 compliance.

Please take note of the following dates. They are very important. Write them on a sticky note, enter them on your calender, tattoo them on your arm... just don't forget!

September 30, 2013 - Rexpert Release 10.0

October 1, 2014 October 1, 2015 - Compliance date to implement ICD-10

The reason these two dates are important and so intimately connected is a simple one: we will all be required to switch our diagnosis codes from ICD-9 to ICD-10 on the second date. Rexpert's next release, on September 30, 2014, will provide is providing support for testing and compliance.

This change is going to be tough, but Rexpert will be going through a series of phases over this next year to create a smooth transition for everyone. Each practice should develop a plan for this period.

Some things to consider while designing a ICD-10 implementation plan are:

1. Training: What training must your providers and internal staff go through so that your practice is ready to code services using ICD-10? If you need resources for such training, use the Feedback button to request assistance, so that we can point you to sites and programs suitable for your specialty.
2. Interfaces: Does your practice use other software that interfaces with Rexpert? Please double-check that this software is set to transition to ICD-10 on the same date as Rexpert. For example, if it is a hospital system, this may determine the date that Rexpert is switched for your practice.
3. Electronic Health Record (EHR): If an Electronic Health Record is available, will the EHR do the coding? What is the ICD-10 update schedule? There will be similar issues with coordinating dates.
4. Internal Documentation: What updates need to made to your patient documentation, encounter forms, and/or charge tickets? Plan on your encounter forms to at least double in length and significantly change in character. Some estimates place an ICD-10 encounter form at 4-5 pages. These changes, especially, need to be worked out well in advance, since it will be impossible to convert everyone's forms starting on September 15, 2014 September 15, 2015! We can develop your new forms and place them "to the side" in your system where they will be ready for the transition date. Rates for this service will increase as the final deadline approaches, so make sure to plan ahead.
5. Test Billing Processes: This is so complex that it is best left for a later week's post!

Here's a chance for you to help your fellow users. Please leave a comment about what you've done so far to get ready for this transition. What challenges are you facing? Have you found any good resources? What is a good first step for a practice which has so far done nothing? Thank you!


Written by: Kylie McKenzie Soder