7 ways to jumpstart your ICD-10 prep now that CMS confirms deadline

Why This Topic Matters

ICD-10 readiness affects workflow, documentation, vendor coordination, training, and revenue cycle operations. The article helps readers understand where to focus early preparation efforts and what kinds of organizations can assist.

Article Sections

1. Not up to speed?

   Provides the article’s context about ICD-10 readiness, the CMS timeline, and the types of practices that may be behind schedule. It frames the operational importance of preparing for the transition.

2. Get caught up with your ICD-10 prep

   Introduces a set of high-level preparation topics and support options for practices that need to accelerate planning. The section organizes the remainder of the article’s guidance.

3. Commit.

   Focuses on leadership attention, internal planning, and readiness as a practice priority.

4. Check your vendor products and contracts.

   Covers coordination with external vendors, upgrades, and testing considerations.

5. Use free information resources.

   Highlights CMS resource locations and general information sources for ICD-10 preparation.

6. Talk to medical groups.

   Discusses support from medical associations and specialty organizations, including educational outreach and documentation-related resources.

7. Find a collaborative.

   Describes regional collaborative groups that bring together providers, vendors, and health plans for shared ICD-10 preparation efforts.

8. Talk to hospitals.

   Addresses collaboration with hospital health information departments and facility HIM staff.

9. Consider a consultant.

   Covers outside consulting and training options for practices seeking additional ICD-10 assistance.