October 30, 2013
As most providers are aware (at least we hope) — the transition to ICD-10 will require significant communication and coordination with vendors and payers. In order to minimize the adverse impacts of ICD-10, providers must assess the readiness of business partners to transact with the new ICD-10 codes as part of their ICD-10 project plan.
Those providers who have not initiated communication with their vendors and payers will face serious challenges come the October 1, 2014 deadline. Historically, the industry culture has been one of “non-collaboration” and, according to studies, it appears providers, payers, and vendors have been operating under differing ICD-10 implementation timelines.
So, what should providers do to ensure vendor and payer preparedness? Here are some essential steps:
If you are a provider and have not opened lines of communication with your vendors and payers, do it, NOW. If you have started planning with vendors and payers, it is necessary that you set expectations and plans for testing. Providers need to be fully aware of where delays may occur due to outside sources so that they can prepare for those delays.
For more resources related to the ICD-10 transition, visit our Resources section.