The healthcare industry in the United States is on the brink of a massive upheaval to its operational infrastructure that will impact every business function throughout the organization. The conversion to ICD-10 is not just an information technology (IT) issue and it is surely not just a coding issue. Furthermore, it is not just a Medicare issue as all payors and providers covered by Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) are affected. The conversion from ICD-9 to ICD-10 will increase both the number and complexity of billing codes and will necessitate changes in software systems, documentation standards, and workflows. Meeting the challenges, recognizing the risks, and minimizing disruption of this massive conversion will require careful planning, meticulous execution, and comprehensive training and support to employees throughout the organization. This article will highlight potential liability risks associated with the conversion to, and utilization of, the highly specific ICD-10 code set. Read more.  

Copyright 2012 American Health Lawyers Association, Washington DC

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