Preparing for ICD-10 in gastroenterology

Patrick TakahashiThough there is some discussion of another delay, ICD-10 implementation remains on track for Oct. 1, 2015. Will gastroenterologists be prepared to switch to the new code set?

Ask a Gastroenterologist is a weekly series of questions posed to GI physicians around the country on business and clinical issues affecting the field of gastroenterology. We invite all gastroenterologists to submit responses.

Next week's question: What advice do you have for gastroenterology fellows who are considering how to establish their practices?

Please submit responses to Carrie Pallardy at cpallardy@beckershealthcare.com by Thursday, January 22, at 5 p.m. CST.

Patrick Takahashi, MD, CMIO and Chief of Gastroenterology Section of St. Vincent Medical Center (Los Angeles): Gastroenterologists as wellas the majority of physicians are ill-prepared for the transition to ICD-10.  ICD-10 is a completely different "animal" and will require the full attention of physicians to ensure proper and smooth adaptation. Gastroenterologists will need to realize that the degree of specificity regarding medical diagnoses will be critical in providing the correct ICD-10 codes.  

This is quite different from ICD-9 and will require a bit of practice and utilization to incorporate into one's current workflow.  The negative impact of improper coding will affect the fiscal bottom line of both institutions (hospital/ASC) as well as physicians. What are needed are real time examples of coding to better prepare physicians to the changes that are abreast. Relying on an electronic health record to find the correct ICD-10 code will be helpful, but not a complete solution. As with any other endeavor, a certain amount of blood, sweat and tears will need to be put forth to bring the final product to fruition.  

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