In advance of ICD-10-CM/PCS, many institutions implemented computer-assisted coding (CAC) hoping to mitigate the anticipated productivity losses, but some research has confirmed my suspicions that there is an inverse relationship between coding productivity and accuracy.
Candace Blankenship, BSN, RN, CCDS, details the scoring weight of the new ICD-10-CM heart failure codes and looks at potential reimbursement discrepancies as none of the new heart failure codes have been assigned to a CC/MCC.
James S. Kennedy, MD, CCS, CDIP, CCDS, writes that in order to comply with CMS’ ever-changing metrics, it’s important for physicians to learn new techniques for better documentation so that ICD-10-CM/PCS codes can be reported more completely.
In advance of ICD-10-CM/PCS, many institutions implemented computer-assisted coding (CAC) hoping to mitigate anticipated productivity losses. Erica E. Remer, MD, FACEP, CCDS, highlights some of the pitfalls of CAC and provides techniques to improve accuracy. Note: To access this free article, make sure you first register here if you do not have a paid subscription.
Cheryl Manchenton, RN, BSN, says that to achieve accurate quality rankings and value-based payments, efforts must extend far beyond coding and CDI to include clinical providers, quality specialists, and other healthcare professionals—and everyone must collaborate to achieve positive results.
James S. Kennedy, MD, CCS, CDIP, CCDS, writes that now that the fiscal year 2018 IPPS final rule and the 2018 ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting have been released, it’s important to review MS-DRG dynamics that warrant consideration in documentation and coding compliance.
Crystal Stalter, CDIP, CCS-P, CPC, writes about the benefits of creating best practices at your facility and how they help avoid time lost and unnecessary delays in payment. Note: To access this free article, make sure you first register here if you do not have a paid subscription.
Coding Clinic , Fourth Quarter 2017, which became effective October 1, has interesting morsels affecting ICD-10-CM/PCS documentation and coding compliance.
Yes, I’ll admit it: I used to be one of those people. Before finding a great fit on a CDI dream team, I worked as a medical review examiner for a Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC). During that time, I reviewed Part A claims for inpatient stays, therapy reviews, medications, and Recovery Auditor (RA) appeals—to name a few. Not only did I gain experience working with Medicare hospital claims, but I also got to see a little bit of how different facilities approach their denials.
