Q: What is the official implementation date for ICD-10-CM?
A: CMS is re-examining the implementation date and will announce it once it is finalized
Q: Will there be a transition period to submit ICD-9-CM and ICD-10-CM?
A: No, there has been no indication that practices will have any grace time
Q: Why is the code set changing from ICD-9-CM to ICD-10-CM?
A: ICD-9-CM was developed in the 1970s, after 30 years the system is running out of codes and through the system structure - ICD-9 will not be able to hold more codes much longer.
Q: There are two parts to ICD-10, will rheumatologists use both of them?
A: No, physicians will only use ICD-10-CM. The other part is ICD-10-PCS which is the procedural coding system section for hospitals to report the resources used to treat hospital inpatient cases.
Q: Will coders need to be retrained or recertified to use ICD-10?
A: Coders will not have to be recertified to keep their current credentials but will have to take and pass an ICD-10 aptitude test to confirm their ability to properly use the new code set with accuracy.
For more information or additional questions, contact Antanya Chung at .
