How are Doctors Feeling About the ICD-10 Transition?
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The International Classification of Diseases is undergoing an upgrade in the U.S. from ICD-9 to ICD-10 effective October 1st, 2015. This classification system is used to diagnose, reimburse, report, manage, research, etc. ICD-10 has more than 69,000 codes compared to ICD-9’s 14,000 codes. The increase in codes will allow for more accurate coding, especially in diagnosis and reimbursement.
The journal article aimed to analyze physicians’ perspectives on the upcoming implementation of ICD-10 and to suggest how to meet physicians’ needs as they progress with ICD-10. Twelve physicians participated in the study.
Most participants were worried about the transition to ICD-10 and the consequences associated with it. The physicians also mentioned their need for resources in order to implement ICD-10. Physicians also were preoccupied over the amount of time that the implementation would occur, so timelessness is essential.
They also expressed their concerns about the increased specificity of ICD-10, which will consequently lead to more documentation. The physicians claimed that training is essential for their transition to ICD-10 and suggested the following needs as guidelines:
- Proper coding and documentation requirements for each code set and clinical specialty
- Payment maximization
- How changes will affect a physician’s clinical specialty
- Utilization of the EHR system to increase efficiency of the clinical processes
- Development of easy training materials to assist physicians
Summary by MedicalGroups.com
To read more from the AHIMA click here
