Tip: Complete full CDI assessment to make the most out of your maturing program
April 15, 2010
CDI Strategies - Volume 4, Issue 8
So you’ve made it through the rigors of the initial CDI implementation stage. Now it’s all smooth sailing, right?
Not so fast. You’ve got to watch out for those storm clouds of regulatory changes and plot a way past any stagnant waters of staffing discontent. Simply stated: Maturing programs face their own challenges.
A good way to begin year two is to complete a full assessment of your program’s effectiveness, says Pam Lovell, MBA, RN, regional director of the clinical intake team for case management at Humana, Inc., in Louisville, KY. At a minimum, Lovell says to:
- Adjust any performance metrics (program and individual productivity) to reflect remaining gains and opportunities
- Create stretch goals to reinvigorate staff
- Review all the steps of the CDI program (forms, policies, audits, etc.) as if you were a consultant
- Look for efficiencies (things to stop or things to change)
- Look for opportunities to add to the program to help meet new challenges
Editor’s Note: ACDIS members have complete access to this article in the April 1 edition of the CDI Journal. This quarter’s edition includes tips to bridge the HIM-CDI divide, challenges and benefits of OB/GYN and pediatrics review, and advice on incorporating core measure reviews into CDI routines.