ICD-10 training: 5 resources to help medical practices get started

With the Oct. 1, 2014 deadline looming, many physicians are still struggling to get started in their adoption of the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD-10).

In June, the Medical Group Management Association (MGMA) released the results of study that confirms many physician practices are lagging in their preparedness. Of the 1,200 medical groups surveyed, only 4.8% said they have “made significant progress” toward implementation.

Here’s a list of resources to help practices prepare for the ICD-10 transition:

1.  CMS Provider Resources – The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) offers comprehensive checklists, helpful tips and transcriptions from webinars to guide providers in this transition.

2.  American Academy of Professional Coders – The level of specificity in the new codes requires more clinical knowledge than coders and billers needed in the past. The AAPC recommends that coders take an in-depth Anatomy and Physiology course to assess and develop their skills. They also offer several course options for providers and their other staff members.

3.  Medscape Education modules – “ICD-10: A Guide for Small and Medium Practices” is a free, 30-minute video presentation offering practical guidance and covering some of the broader impacts on practices. They have also created a guide for large practices.

4.  ICD-10 Implementation Guide for Physician Practices – This book, which can be purchased on the MGMA website, offers physicians a timeline for their preparation and will help determine the level of readiness for their practice. The American Medical Association has also released a book with the official draft code set.

5.  ICD-9 to ICD-10 Conversion Tool – While this widget certainly won’t supplement for the required training, it will be a helpful tool for physicians to have on hand during the initial implementation.

Rhonda Buckholtz, vice president of ICD-10 education and training for AAPC, recommends checking with your state’s MGMA chapter to see what additional educational opportunities are available in your area.

“If you look around, you’re able to find some resources and ways to decrease the overall burden,” says Buckholtz. “If they start now, physicians still have time to take a strategic approach to this.”

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