AHA and Blue Cross Blue Shield: Do not delay ICD-10

While study after study indicates that providers are ill prepared to convert to ICD-10 by the Oct. 1, 2014 deadline, the American Hospital Association (AHA) and the Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) Association told legislators they are on schedule for implementation and urged against any further delays.

In identical letters to the House of Representatives and Senate, the AHA reported that in a survey of about 750 hospitals, 94 percent felt “fairly confident” that could meet the deadline, but noted Meaningful Use of EHRs remained a competing priority. Likewise, a BCBA Association survey found that all are actively engaged in ICD-10 projects—including outreach to providers to assist them in meeting the implementation date—and expect them to be ready for compliance.

The groups expressed support for the ICD-10 transition, noting that it provides needed updates to the coding and billing system. “The adoption of ICD-10 is seen as an integral part of the EHR and will provide solid and detailed information to guide the innovations taking place in the delivery of healthcare services, such as patient-centered medical homes and accountable care organizations,” the groups wrote. They cautioned against extending the deadline, noting that such a move could increase costs and require duplicative work.