HCC Coding: What Is It?
Hierarchical Condition Categories (HCCs) categorize diagnoses codes into groups with clinical and financial similarities and this payment method is coming on to the scene quickly.
Human Trafficking: Hidden Problem, Hidden Costs
New ICD-10 codes allow for clinicians to document treatment of human trafficking victims, but legal considerations should be taken before doing so.
Offshore Coding Costs More in the Long Run
Offshore coder productivity was 34 percent lower per hour than domestic coders, according to a recent study. Healthcare organizations needed 51 percent more offshore coders, raising the effective hourly rate of offshore coders to $52.85 per hour, versus $60 for domestic coders.
Invest in Ongoing Coder Education to Reap Long-Term Rewards
Eight practical strategies can move current staff into new coding roles.
Offshore Versus Domestic Outsourced Coding Services: A Comparative Assessment
Although offshore outsourced medical record coding services are widely believed to a cost-effective outsourcing option, a recent study identified concerns that healthcare providers considering this option should address before moving forward.
Outpatient Coding Conundrums
When the codes on claims submitted by surgeons and outpatient surgery centers are not in agreement, one or both claims may be denied.
Coding for Smoking Cessation Services
There are no required guidelines on what type of smoking cessation should be administered, but the service should be documented and reported.
Coding Root Operations in ICD-10 Reiterate the Basics
How can coding managers help their coding professionals master root operations in ICD-10-PCS?
Implementation of ICD-10 Coding Correlates With Increased Charges
An analysis of data from 2015, the year of the transition from ICD-9 to ICD-10, found that the average charge per inpatient discharge increased following implementation of ICD-10.
A Partnership Approach to a More Powerful Coding Compliance Program
Growing evidence suggests that traditional audit practices used during the ICD-9 era are no longer useful. Instead, the focus should shift to ongoing coder performance audits and reviews.