By Melissa Varnavas
That seems like a tall order, doesn’t it? Who really understands healthcare reimbursement in this complicated day and age, in this private payer, social security, Medicare, Medicaid, who’s–defrauding–whom world? Calling reimbursement an “ever-changing system”...Read More »
by Cathy A. Farraher, RN, BSN, MBA, CCM, CCDS
When most CDI managers or directors meet up with C-suite executives (the head-honcho administrative staff members whose titles all begin with the word “chief”), they typically arrive armed with the latest data regarding the case mix...Read More »
ACDIS celebrated its 10th birthday last month—not coincidentally the anniversary of CMS DRGs also. “I’ve never hesitated to say that’s partly why we took off,” said ACDIS Director Brian Murphy on the September 27...Read More »
When asked to describe their job, many CDI professionals explain that they help physicians and coders paint an accurate picture of the care provided to patients. But how can CDI programs flip the canvas and dip their brushes to paint their own self-portrait?
By Jocelyn E. Murray, RN, CCDS
What are the similarities and differences between CDI audits and coding compliance audits? Are both necessary? It’s our collective responsibility to provide the insight that defines the two specialties and the critical efforts both bring to the table...Read More »
Q: My facility is discussing querying advanced practice providers (APP). Does ACDIS have any official opinion on this? To clarify, the APPs are licensed providers (nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists, physician assistants, etc., or residents/limited license). I am of the opinion that...Read More »
by Richard Pinson, MD, FACP, CCS, and Cynthia Tang, RHIA, CCS COPD and Pneumonia
The requirement for code J44.0 (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with acute lower respiratory infection) to be coded first when a patient has pneumonia and COPD has been...Read More »
By Allen Frady, RN-BSN, CCDS, CCS, CRC
On October 1, 845+ codes took effect thanks to the fiscal year 2018 IPPS Final Rule, which was released at the beginning of August. As you review the updates, additions, and deletions in this year’s rule, I wanted to answer some of your...Read More »
