Legacy systems must be modified to accommodate the new numbering schemes while system crosswalks must be developed to reference and analyze non-standard historical data. Add to that task the daunting fact that not all identifiers will be issued at the same time, and efforts for system compliance will be staggered. Imagine a scenario where benefits need to be coordinated between federal programs. One agency may have unique identifiers and standards fully implemented, while the other may be months away from compliance. Intelligence automation in place today would need to be significantly re-tooled to handle such a case, if it can be automated at all.
Potential problems extend beyond the advent of unique identifiers.
The mandate requiring payers to have the ability to accept ten electronic transactions within a two-year period may sound like an electronic data consultant's dream come true. However, one must consider the profound phenomenon that may occur when these transactions begin to be a commodity. Simplification not simple Administration simplification is inevitable and necessary for health care to flourish in this country. However, it will be anything but simple. Eventually, America will have her say.