Healthcare Organizations Launch Collaborative Initiative to Test HIPAA Transactions Against Proposed 5010...(ganizations are confident the 5010 Testi...),Health

"Ultimately, government and industry gain from exploring opportunities that streamline the overall regulatory process by having industry test and implement new standards in the field, with everyone reaping the benefits of the improved processes," said Kerry Weems, Acting Administrator of CMS.

On August 22, 2008, CMS issued a proposed rule that would adopt updated versions of the standards for electronic transactions under the authority of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA). The updated standards would replace the current standards, and would promote the efficiencies needed in electronic transactions.

About Blue Cross Blue Shield Association

The Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association is a national federation of 39 independent, community-based and locally operated Blue Cross and Blue Shield companies that collectively provide healthcare coverage for more than 102 million individuals -- nearly one-in-three Americans. For more information on the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association and its member companies, please visit www.BCBS.com.

About CAQH

CAQH, a nonprofit alliance of health plans and trade associations, is a catalyst for healthcare industry collaboration on initiatives that streamline healthcare administration, resulting in a better care experience for patients and caregivers. CAQH solutions -- like CORE -- help promote quality interactions between plans, providers and other stakeholders, reduce costs and frustrations associated with healthcare administration and encourage administrative-clinical data integration. More than 100 healthcare industry st
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