RE: HIPAA code sets update synchronization

[Young, Brian]

Cory, George, Kumar,   Your concerns and questions covering Code Sets (Medical Codes) and Implementation Guideline (IG) billing codes (Non-Medical Codes) is a very reasonable one.  I too have been wondering about how often will Code Sets change, will there be distribution coordination of Code Sets between the various organizations, and will there be a central location archiving this information as well as the Code Sets themselves.  As for the IG billing codes, they may have the same problem, hopefully less often.  A maximum of once per 12 month time frame,  since they are tied to the IGs.  See sections 160.104 and 162.1000 of Transaction Standards.   As to answering your question about maintaining multiple versions, the short answer is Yes.   Multiple versions of Transaction Sets and Code Sets (TnC) will be a necessary part of a good HIPAA ready billing, translation or otherwise system.  Not just for backwards compatibility; but, forward thinking designed systems as well.  Any good system will have the required changes in its customers hands before a mandated implementation date.  Thus the ability to handle multiple versions of TnC is very important, if not critical.    BTW... this holds true even more so right now.  Caused by the ability of covered entities to apply for the extension.  The impact on vendors like my company is, not only must our systems be TnC ready come 10-16-2002; but, our systems must maintain all current EDI formats.  This optional extension was a nightmare in disguise of a blessing.   Still, would be nice to have a more regular schedule on the Code Sets.  So I do understand that, I do, I do, I do.   My thoughts and hope this helps,       BCY Brian C. Young Accu-Med Services Inc. Omnicare Company 300 TechneCenter Dr. Milford, OH 45150 513.831.1207 To be removed from this list, go to: http://snip.wedi.org/unsubscribe.cfm?list=codeset and enter your email address. The WEDI SNIP listserv to which you are subscribed is not moderated. The discussions on this listserv therefore represent the views of the individual participants, and do not necessarily represent the views of the WEDI Board of Directors nor WEDI SNIP. If you wish to receive an official opinion, post your question to the WEDI SNIP Issues Database at http://snip.wedi.org/tracking/. Posting of advertisements or other commercial use of this listserv is specifically prohibited.