Sharme Brodie, RN, CCDS , discusses how to decipher between some potentially confusing—and possibly conflicting—information regarding diabetes documentation requirements.
Shannon Newell, RHIA, CCS, AHIMA-approved ICD-10-CM/PCS trainer, writes that the majority of the 2017 IPPS final rule updates are consistent with those outlined in the proposed rule, but contain a few refinements. She reviews refinements to the number of claims-based outcomes linked to payment.
Accurately reporting altered mental status and encephalopathy can be a challenge that requires coordination between coders and providers. James S. Kennedy, MD, CCS, CDIP, explains best practices for coding these tricky conditions. Note: To access this free article, make sure you first register if you do not have a paid subscription.
CMS released the fiscal year (FY) 2017 IPPS final rule August 2, and ICD-10-CM/PCS code changes and the addition of the Medicare Outpatient Observation Notice (MOON) both had starring roles. CMS also made changes to several quality initiatives and reversed the agency's 0.2% payment reduction instituted along with the 2-midnight rule first implemented in the FY 2014 rule.
Last month, I wrote about the role of coding and CDI compliance in ensuring the clinical validity of submitted ICD-10-CM/PCS codes, which impact payment, outcomes measurement (e.g., complications, mortality, and readmissions), and patient safety.
The fiscal year (FY) 2017 IPPS final rule was released August 2 and will be published in the Federal Register August 22. The majority of the finalized updates are consistent with those outlined in the proposed rule, but with a few refinements to applicable time periods. The final rule expands and refines the number of claims-based outcomes linked to payment under these programs. Let's review a few of the key changes to support your CDI program's strategic focus for the coming year.
Lori-Lynne A. Webb, CPC, CCS-P, CCP, CHDA, COBGC, CDIP , writes about how computer-assisted coding software can be used to boost coding accuracy and productivity, in addition to being an important tool for the remote coder.
Robert Stein, MD, CCDS, and Shannon Newell, RHIA, CCS, co-author this article that provides insights into how clinical documentation and reported codes may impact payments and offer guidance on some common CDI challenges to strengthening data quality. Note: To access this free article, make sure you first register if you do not have a paid subscription.
Richard D. Pinson, MD, FACP, CCS , discusses the new Sepsis-3 definition and how the classification has been the subject of great controversy and consternation since its publication in The Journal of the American Medical Association.
