Most practices have failed to progress toward the critical HIPAA Version 5010 implementation, which could impede claims processing and keep you from getting paid, according to a Medical Group Management Association (MGMA) follow-up survey.
Remember: Since HIPAA 5010 is needed to process ICD-10 codes, which will take effect Oct. 13, 2012, not having a 5010-ready system by the Jan. 1, 2012 deadline would result in providers not getting paid (PBN 4/25/11).
With the HIPAA 5010 deadline just six months away, many practices could get left behind.
"We are growing increasingly concerned regarding the ability of medical group practices to meet the Jan. 1 deadline," said MGMA's president and CEO William Jessee, MD, in a news release. The study found:
-
Nearly half of respondents have not started implementing of Version 5010 at all or even partially (45.2%, 45.9% respectively)
-
Only 2% indicated complete implementation
-
About 40% are planning to test between March 2011 and December 2011
-
Almost 10% have begun testing
-
Just over half (50.3%) of respondents reported out-of-date software
"Our research indicates a significant number of practices have been forced to wait for their practice management system software vendors to make the required modifications before they can begin to test with clearinghouses and health plans,” Jessee said.