The debate over ICD-10 implementation has become rather predictable.
The ICD-10 proponents will cite the limitations of the ICD-9 code set and the need for more robust data.
The ICD-10 opponents seem to have the more interesting and passionate arguments:
- ICD-10 is too expensive and complicated.
- The diagnoses include many absurd conditions.
- There are still shortcomings in the ICD-10 code set.
ICD-10 deficiencies
It will do just fine in our current fee-for-service model but not so well as a way to collect clinical data that can directly improve patient care.
This is probably the point we should declare death to ICD-10 coding and rush to anoint ICD-11 coding as the savior. But remember ICD-11 has promise not an actual code set yet. We don’t know for sure that it will be all that we hope it can be.
Besides, no one classification system is going to serve all of healthcare’s billing and data needs. Especially since this is an industry looking to move toward fee-for-value business models.
ICD-10 Delay: An Opportunity To Change Course
Here are the some suggestions for what to do with the time that the ICD-10 delay gives the healthcare industry:
- Create an IT strategic plan
- Improve documentation
Remember: Treat the patients not diseases
