How to Prepare for ICD-10 Coding, Software Revisions

The necessary training to use the system also is extensive. CMS has said that coders, code users and physicians will require varying levels of training. All coders will have to learn a program called ICD-10-CM, but hospital-inpatient coders will have to learn an additional program called IDC-10-PCS.

But this government-mandated expenditure is justified because the long-term benefits of the transition, in monetary savings and in improved patient care and medical research, will be substantial, in improvements in disease management, better understanding of health conditions and healthcare outcomes, and harmonization of disease and treatment monitoring and reporting worldwide--as well as more accurate and appropriate payments, fewer improper claims and fewer improperly-rejected claims. These are no small rewards.

But first the system must be implemented. Because of its complexity and technical operational requirements, completion before the January 1, 2012 and October 1, 2013 deadlines demands a substantial expenditure of money. And of time and forethought.

Increased “granulation” of information is a term used often to describe the effect and benefits of ICD-10, but even that term does not do justice to the nature of the changes.

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