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As previously communicated, the U.S. Department of Health and Human 
Services has confirmed in a final rule that October 1, 2015, 
will be the compliance deadline for the implementation of ICD-10. The final 
rule requires the continued use of ICD-9 through September 30, 2015.
 
Beginning in early 2015, Independence will resume the monthly What?s Up 
Wednesday teleconferences, jointly hosted by the four Pennsylvania Blue Plans. 
We will also resume external testing with previously selected providers and 
keep you informed throughout 2015.
 
What is What?s Up Wednesday? 
What?s Up Wednesday is a monthly teleconference hosted by 
Pennsylvania?s Blue Plans to help prepare health care professionals for the 
transition to ICD-10 on October 1, 2015. What?s Up Wednesday will 
feature special guest speakers and ICD-10 experts from the health care industry 
who will lead discussions to help us get ready for the upcoming compliance 
date. All providers, clearinghouses, information trading partners, and 
information networks are encouraged to participate.
 
External testing 
Independence is in the process of reassessing and communicating our external 
testing plan and schedule. As was the case last year, we will test with our 
pre-established testing partners and share our successes and challenges with 
our provider network.
 
Learn more 
Detailed information about upcoming calls and external testing schedules 
will be communicated in future editions of Partners in Health 
UpdateSM and within the ICD-10 section of our website.
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