AAPC Editorials Disagree on Effectiveness, Necessity of ICD-10

Coding experts disagree on the effectiveness and necessity of ICD-10, according to a set of opposing editorials published by the American Association of Professional Coders.

In his editorial, Brian Whitman of the American College of Physicians said the transition to ICD-10 may not be worth “the incredible effort and expense.” He says the American College of physicians, an organization that represents more than 124,000 internists and medical students, does not see evidence to support making the transition, particularly in the area of outpatient coding for diagnoses.

Mr. Whitman says he also finds it “hard to believe” that ICD-10 will improve health care, given the already-limited funds available to many hospitals, physicians and surgery centers.

On the other side, Deborah Grider, CPC, CPC-H, CPC-I, CPC-P, CEMC, CPMA, COBGC, CPCD, CCS-P, said a Rand study proves ICD-10 is “technically superior” to ICD-9, as well as more logically organized and more detailed. She said the benefits of the transition will include fewer miscoded, rejected and improperly reimbursed claims, improved disease management, more accurate payment for new inpatient procedures and a better understanding of healthcare outcomes.

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