With the October 1, 2015 ICD-10 implementation deadline coming squarely into focus for health centers and providers nationwide, Azara is receiving regular inquiries regarding our preparedness. Thankfully, the development efforts we put forth in early 2014 have positioned us well for the transition.
In May of 2014, Azara released its first version of DRVS that met the criteria for ONC Certification for Meaningful Use. As part of our preparation for certification, we completely reengineered our measure calculation infrastructure, enhancing our ability to handle multiple code sets (ICD-9, ICD-10, LOINC, SNOMED, etc.). All of our retooled DRVS measures are configured to calculate based on whatever code sets we retrieve from the client EHR and PM systems, including ICD-10.
While the bulk of the existing clinical quality measures (CQMs) are already poised for a seamless transition, I should call attention to one measure set that is not: The 2014 UDS measure set did not specify ICD-10 codes, so those measures can only be calculated using existing ICD-9 or CPT code sets. We anticipate that in the 2015 PAL and in the subsequently published 2015 UDS Manual, HRSA will provide the guidance necessary to incorporate ICD-10 code sets into the UDS measures. Azara will be prepared to incorporate those into DRVS along with any measure changes required for 2015 UDS reporting.
Beyond the clinical quality measures, the other components of Azara DRVS, such as the Patient Visit Planning Report and the various disease registries, will continue to function in the same manner, regardless of underlying code set.
Here’s the bottom line: The Azara development team’s hard work in 2014 means you don’t need to worry about whether DRVS will continue to work as the ICD-10 cutover date approaches -- IT WILL. We are pleased to report that you can save your energy for the many other items that are part of this major transition in our healthcare system.
Jeff Brandes is President & CEO of Azara Healthcare.
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