Advancing CDI With Technology

Clinical documentation integrity (CDI) work has evolved significantly over the industry’s history, particularly when it comes to technology and software solutions. CDI professionals have transitioned from paper charts to electronic health records (EHR), and now they’re making the leap to more advanced technology and artificial intelligence (AI) solutions such as computer-assisted physician documentation (CAPD), natural language processing (NLP), chart prioritization, and more.

While these solutions can increase productivity, free up time for education and complex reviews, and streamline workflows, CDI department leaders have the difficult task of making the case to organizational leadership for adopting new technologies. Once they’ve secured that support, they then must verify the tool meets their department’s specific needs and ensure a smooth transition for both their staff and the physicians at their organization.

In partnership with 3M, the Association of Clinical Documentation Integrity Specialists (ACDIS) CDI Leadership Council asked several of its members to evaluate the results of a nationwide survey on advancing CDI with technology and to discuss their organizational approach to this topic. In this industry report, readers get a full inside-look at the expert CDI leadership conversation and the data surrounding the impact of technology on CDI work, budget planning, and more!

Major takeaways

• Most survey respondents say that technology has increased CDI productivity, freed up time for more complex or expanded reviews, and increased remote work capabilities.
• More than 64% of respondents said that they always clinically validate electronically prompted/auto-suggested diagnoses.
• The biggest challenges to technology adoption and implementation are budget restrictions and customization limitations, according to respondents, and only 23% reported concerns that new technology could negatively impact their key performance indicators.