A new version of Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) transaction and code sets standards becomes effective in one year. To help physicians understand the new 5010 standard, including critical timelines key changes providers need to be particularly aware of, the Get Ready 5010 Initiative is offering a series of free webinars. The first webinars are Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday this week.

The webinars will feature speakers from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), provider and payer organizations, and will discuss 1) the current level of readiness and plans for testing; 2) how to prepare for testing; and 3) 5010 basics for newcomers.

The Get Ready 5010 initiative is supported by a broad group of health care industry stakeholders representing providers, payers, government, and vendors who are coordinating their efforts to support a smooth and timely transition to Version 5010. For more information and to register for these webinars go to the Get Ready 5010 website.

CMS is also hosting a free call and webinar on January 19 from 11:00 to 12:30 pm Pacific Time to discuss 5010 implementation. For more information or to register, visit the CMS webiste.