Understanding the ICD-10 Implementation Delay
The transition to ICD-10 [1], the 10th revision of the International Classification of Diseases, was initially set for October 1, 2014. However, due to legislative action, the implementation date was postponed to October 1, 2015. This delay was mandated by the Protecting Access to Medicare Act of 2014 [2], which prohibited the Secretary of Health and Human Services from adopting ICD-10 prior to that date (Seyfarth.com analysis) [3].
Impact on Healthcare Providers
The delay provided additional time for healthcare providers to prepare for the transition. However, it also led to challenges, including the need to maintain dual coding systems (ICD-9 and ICD-10) [4] temporarily. This situation increased administrative burdens and costs for healthcare facilities.
Reactions from the Healthcare Community
The ICD-10 delay elicited mixed reactions from the healthcare community. Some providers expressed relief, appreciating the extra time to prepare. Others, who had already invested significant resources into training and system upgrades, found the delay frustrating and costly (Covington Digital Health report) [5].
HIPAA Version 5010
To enable the use of ICD-10, the healthcare industry transitioned to HIPAA Version 5010, which offered the capacity to manage its complex coding system.
References
- ICD-10 – Wikipedia
- Protecting Access to Medicare Act of 2014 – Wikipedia
- Seyfarth.com analysis
- CMS Transitioning to ICD-10 Fact Sheet
- Covington Digital Health report