The new CMS forms were designed to change over from ICD9 to ICD10 diagnosis codes. During the implementation period when both versions are accepted, there will be an indicator added to designate which version of diagnosis code you are using, ICD9 or ICD10. Another major change is that the new forms will be able to report 12 diagnosis codes rather than the 4 on the current forms.
Recommended timeline for transitioning to the 0212 version of the 1500 Claim Form is as follows:
June 1 – October 1, 2013 – Providers can use either the current (08/05) or the revised (02/12) 1500 Claim Form. Health plans, clearinghouses, and billing vendors are able to accept and process either version of the form.
October 1, 2013 – The current (08/05) 1500 Claim Form is discontinued; only the revised (02/12) 1500 Claim Form is to be used. All rebilling of claims will be on the revised (02/12) 1500 Claim Form going forward.