Administration to Delay Implementation of ICD-10 Codes

The AMA is applauding a decision by the Obama administration to postpone the date by which certain health care entities have to comply with International Classification of Diseases, 10th Edition (ICD-10diagnosis and procedure codes (ICD-10). "The AMA appreciates [Health and Human Services] Secretary Sebelius' swift response to address the AMA’s serious concerns with ICD-10 implementation,” said AMA President Peter Carmel, M.D., in a statement yesterday. “The timing of the ICD-10 transition could not be worse for physicians....Burdens on physician practices need to be reduced--not created--as the nation's health care system undertakes significant payment and delivery reforms.”

In announcing the decision, Sebelius said, “We are committing to work with the provider community to reexamine the pace at which HHS and the nation implement these important improvements to our health care system.”

This is not the first such delay. For coverage in Psychiatric News, see here.