Medical billing is the health care area selected for the discussion. Undeniably, medical billing department handles the collection of payments to ensure the success of business’ finances. Medical billing is the process of submitting and following up on claims with health insurance companies in order to receive payment for the services rendered by healthcare providers (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medical_billing). Usually, the process is performed by electronic means and each claim must be a mirror image of the patient encounter, supported by progress physicians and nurse practitioners notes, treatments, and diagnoses.
Most Relevant IT Standards
Medical billing manage sensitive information including names, addresses, social security numbers, and clinical data. Therefore, billing software is supported by Protected Health Information (PHI) settings to prevent the disclosure of any information that can identify a patient. However, most practice management billing software usually relies on the clearinghouse to convert data to a HIPAA compatible format. Thus, information is encrypted to minimize …show more content…
However, the replacement of ICD-9 for ICD-10 is no small task. It involves everything from reeducating coders and physicians to upgrading coding and billing systems (Diamond, 2008) since the code set increased from 17,000 to 155,000 alphanumeric codes to add claims specificity and detailed. Recently, CMS reported the provisions adopted during the first year transition. CMS will work in association with AMA and would not deny any claim during the first year of implementation, no payment disruptions will occurred. Also, an ICD-10 Ombudsman and communication centers will be created for navigating transition problems (Sullivan, July 6,