Part B Insider (Multispecialty) Coding Alert

While some practices have tucked ICD-10 readiness into the backs of their minds, CMS wants to keep it on the forefront of yours.

Although the ICD-10 utilization deadline isn't until October 1, 2013, CMS continues to remind practices that preparation now will prevent desperation in 2013. To that end, CMS has introduced a free service that allows you to receive an email notification whenever the information on its ICD-10 page is updated. Therefore, when the agency announces an ICD-10 webinar, transcript, article, or tip sheet, you'll get a notification via email to check the site for more information.

Most recently, the site posted an executive summary of its April 27 ICD-10 vendor conference, at which vendors told CMS that "they have implementation plans in place for both Version 5010 and ICD-10, and are confident that they can meet the implementation deadlines." However, vendors did express concern "that there is no testing period for ICD-10 prior to the Oct. 1, 2013 implementation deadline."

To that end, vendors were eager to hear about what the payers are doing to prepare for ICD-10, because any snags on the MAC side could slow payments to practices.

In addition, vendors noted that medical providers -- particularly those in small- to mid-sized practices -- aren't focusing on ICD-10 yet, but the vendors strongly felt that providers should prepare now for the transition, because "if you do not comply, you will not be paid."

For more information on ICD-10, visit www.cms.gov/ICD10/02b_Latest_News.asp.