ICD-10 Delay Doesn't Come Without Worries

Watson understands the provider struggles. In e-mails she noted that one of the things that makes ICD-10 so complicated is the "pervasive nature of the changes. It's more than just updating one system or one form. For many providers, there are multiple systems, applications, forms, and processes that require remediation."

Software vendors, ostensibly in a position to help, can add another layer of complication because "there are interdependencies that need to be taken into account," she explained.

The deadline delay provides an opportunity for both internal and external testing "to ensure the remediation not only works technically, but that the outcomes of all processes are what would be expected," Watson wrote.

While there has been some aversion to the ICD-10 transition and the costs associated with the move, Desrochers says the confirmed delay in the ICD-10 process "is locked and loaded now. It won't change again. People just need to get on board."