CMS tells doctors: Close enough is good enough for one year in ICD-10

Why This Topic Matters

The article is important because it addresses transition-period billing and documentation uncertainty during ICD-10 implementation and how CMS intended Medicare contractors to handle specificity concerns. It also highlights possible effects on claim processing, quality program penalties, and practice readiness during the conversion period.

Article Sections

1. ICD-10 grace period announcement

   Summarizes the CMS and AMA announcement and describes the general scope of the temporary transition flexibility for claims review and related program impacts.

2. Unclear definition of family for ICD codes

   Discusses the terminology used in the announcement, the ambiguity around the level of code specificity expected, and CMS’s plan for additional clarification.

3. Mixed opinions on the policy

   Presents reactions from industry leaders and practitioners about the operational impact of the policy and its limits for different provider types.