Frequently Asked Questions for HIM Professionals

Don’t see your question? Email your question to AHIMA at icd10questions@ahima.org and check here often for FAQ updates as AHIMA is constantly building the pool of Q&As.

Additional FAQs are available at FAQs about ICD-10.

How can I ensure my staff and I are ready when ICD-10 is implemented?

The detailed ICD-10 Preparation Checklist is one tool that can be used to help establish steps and set goals for implementation. Additional preparatory steps are available here.

How can I adequately prepare for this transition?

It is up to you to ensure you are up to speed on changes associated with ICD-10-CM. Fortunately, AHIMA has the resources needed to prepare for success. The Body of Knowledge (BoK) is loaded with relevant articles, practice briefs and position statements.

CodeWrite is a monthly newsletter geared toward coders looking to stay on top of their skills and learn more. Each issue features “ICD-10 Checkpoint” to check your knowledge by comparing ICD-9-CM codes to ICD-10-CM/PCS codes. Find CodeWrite in the Coding CoP.

How will ICD-10 affect HIM certification maintenance requirements?

The impact of ICD-10 on AHIMA’s coding credentials is of particular concern to credentialed professionals and the HIM industry. The credentials are intended in part to demonstrate current, mastery level expertise to employers and the industry. Thus, the integration of ICD-10 into the certification and certification maintenance processes hold special significance. The AHIMA Commission on Certification, the governing body responsible for setting certification standards, will consider options for integrating the new code set into the certification maintenance requirements for current credential holders, taking into account the obvious need for recognizing ICD-10 competence as part of a successful industry transition.