Terry Tropin, MSHAI, RHIA, CCS-P , delves into the 2026 ICD-10-PCS updates that include complicated bypass, restriction, and transfer procedures, which previously could not be specifically coded. Also included are some new devices that require their own code.
Coders and CDI specialists play a central role in accurate documentation, coding compliance, and quality metrics, yet collaboration between the two often stalls. Julie Ahlfeld, RHIT, CCS, shows how building a culture where coders and CDI professionals function as true allies can be the solution to the disconnect.
Our experts answer questions on new codes introduced to differentiate multiple sclerosis subtypes, the must know concept of Elixhauser comorbidities, and key questions to address prior to coding chest pain.
Coders play a vital role in applying CDI technology standards by guaranteeing that the output of automated tools aligns with compliant coding practices and official coding guidelines. Alba Kuqi, MD, MSHIM, RHIA, CCM, CRCR, CICA, CSMC, CSAF, CCS, CCDS, CDIP, breaks down a framework for selecting, implementing, and maintaining technology solutions that support compliant documentation practices.
Coding practices by Medicare Advantage insurers make members seem sicker, which resulted in an extra $33 billion in payments from the federal government in 2021, relative to coding by traditional Medicare providers, according to a study published by the Annals of Internal Medicine .
Coders play a vital role in applying CDI technology standards by guaranteeing that the output of automated tools aligns with compliant coding practices and official coding guidelines. Alba Kuqi, MD, MSHIM, RHIA, CCM, CRCR, CICA, CSMC, CSAF, CCS, CCDS, CDIP, breaks down a framework for selecting, implementing, and maintaining technology solutions that support compliant documentation practices.
Cardiomyopathy refers to a group of conditions in which the heart muscle becomes diseased, making it harder for the body to pump blood effectively to the rest of the body . While accurate ICD-10-CM coding of cardiomyopathy requires precise documentation of the cause (if known) and complications, the type will drive the final code choice. Note : To access this free article, make sure you first register if you do not have a paid subscription.
As clinical validation becomes an area that payers and regulatory bodies are investigating heavily, the need for steadfast collaboration between coding professionals and CDI specialists has never been greater. TaraJo Vaught, MSN, RN, CCDS, CCDS-O, explores how these two teams can bridge the gaps between them and enhance their clinical validation practices to drive better outcomes across the board.
Join us on the podium at the 2026 Revenue Integrity Symposium (RIS), to be held September 24-25, 2026, in Savannah, Georgia. We’re now accepting proposals to speak at 2026 RIS. The deadline to apply...
Many disorders of immunity require ongoing management and often contribute to complications or comorbidities during hospitalization. For inpatient coders, accurately identifying and coding these disorders is crucial, not only to reflect the full clinical picture and support severity of illness and risk of mortality metrics, but also to ensure correct DRG assignment. Note : To access this free article, make sure you first register if you do not have a paid subscription.
Operative reports often contain more precise and detailed information than preoperative notes or consent forms, and correctly interpreting those details is essential to assigning the right inpatient procedure codes. Alba Kuqi, MD, MSHIM, RHIA, CCM, CRCR, CICA, CSMC, CSAF, CCS, CCDS, CDIP, provides coders with actionable strategies for reviewing surgical documentation and applying codes.
CMS recently released an updated MLN fact sheet reminding providers when a transcatheter tricuspid valve replacement for symptomatic tricuspid regurgitation can be covered under the coverage with evidence development policy. Included are the ICD-10-CM/PCS codes that must be reported for inpatient cases.
Terry Tropin, MSHAI, RHIA, CCS-P, reviews the third quarter publication of Coding Clinic , which added clarifications for complicated coding procedures that may require more than one code when performed together, depending on the objective of each procedure.
There are 116 new ICD-10-CM codes available for chronic non-pressure skin ulcers, added for FY 2026. Nancy Reading, BS, CPC, CPC-P, CPC-I, explores these new codes and how they were added in response to a growing problem identified as xylazine-induced skin ulcers.
Our experts answer questions on the proper use of the new diabetes code for cases in remission, documentation and coding solutions for denial proofing sepsis claims, and best practices for clinical validation queries.
Payers are further along in the AI process as they use AI to scrub claims against their policies, which many believe is contributing to the recent uptick in denials. As organizations attempt to catch up with technological advancements and defend themselves against payers’ new tactics, departments such as coding, CDI, and revenue cycle should be prepared for increased AI integration and determine the best ways to utilize the technology.
As clinical validation becomes an area that payers and regulatory bodies are investigating heavily, the need for steadfast collaboration between coding professionals and CDI specialists has never been greater. TaraJo Vaught, MSN, RN, CCDS, CCDS-O, explores how these two teams can bridge the gaps between them and enhance their clinical validation practices to drive better outcomes across the board.
Beginning October 1, 2025, there will be 116 new ICD-10-CM codes available for chronic non-pressure skin ulcers, added for FY 2026. Nancy Reading, BS, CPC, CPC-P, CPC-I , explores these new codes and how they were added in response to a growing problem identified as xylazine-induced skin ulcers.
