Delay could offer practices additional time to prepare for new diagnosis coding system. If you have been worrying about the looming Oct. 1, 2013 ICD-10 implementation date, you can breathe a small sigh of relief -- but don't rest for too long, experts warn. HHS Delay Follows CMS Hints On Feb. 16, 2012, the Dept. of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary "ICD-10 codes are important to many positive improvements in our health care system," Sebelius said in the press release. "We have heard from many in the provider community who have concerns about the administrative burdens they face in the years ahead. We are committing to work with the provider community to reexamine the pace at which HHS and the nation implement these important improvements to our health care system." The announcement followed hints that CMS was planning a pushback. On Feb. 14, acting CMS administrator Physicians Are Cautiously Optimistic About Timeline Keep in mind that neither the HHS nor CMS has announced just how much of a delay will take place, but physicians are pleased that they'll benefit from some additional time to implement the new diagnosis coding system. "The American Medical Association appreciates Secretary Sebelius' swift response to address the AMA's serious concerns with ICD-10 implementation," said Sebelius' statement appears to fall short of the AMA House of Delegates' original recommendation last fall, which was for a full repeal of ICD-10. However, a slower pace could at least buy time for practices that have not yet considered the impact of ICD-10 on their Stay on track: "I think that even with a possible delay, practices should not put ICD-10 on the back burner," says Keep an eye on these pages for more on this topic as CMS releases additional information about the adjusted ICD-10 timeline. To read Sebelius' statement, visit www.hhs.gov/news/press/2012pres/02/20120216a.html.