Author: DeVault, Kathryn

Source: Journal of AHIMA - Coding Notes | Journal of AHIMA

Publication Date: September 2015

The complexity of ICD-10-PCS, as well as the need for a better understanding of anatomy and physiology and the technique of surgical procedures, has been well documented. The coding of cardiovascular procedures in ICD-10-PCS, in particular, requires focus.


Consider these p....

Author: Kulanko, Jill

Source: Journal of AHIMA - Coding Notes | Journal of AHIMA

Publication Date: September 2015

Sepsis is arguably the most challenging condition to code correctly in ICD-9-CM. The condition itself is complex and the definitions regarding sepsis, SIRS, and severe sepsis have evolved over time, keeping coders on their toes. The guidelines are also difficult to understand. Complicatin....

Author: Foley, Margaret M.

Source: Journal of AHIMA - Coding Notes | Journal of AHIMA

Publication Date: July 2015

Prior to the October 1, 2015 implementation of ICD-10-CM/PCS, every hospital must examine how the new code set will impact MS-DRG reimbursement. A recent Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) analysis indicates the overall effect of the transition to ICD-10 on hospital reimburs....

Author: Arrowood, Danita; Johnson, Laurie M.; Wieczorek, Michelle M.

Source: Journal of AHIMA - Coding Notes | Journal of AHIMA

Publication Date: July 2015

Clinical documentation improvement (CDI) programs have proven their worth with over a decade of success and continued role expansion in the inpatient setting. As the healthcare industry prepares for new initiatives such as value-based purchasing, electronic health records (EHRs), and ICD-1....

Author: Flewelling, Charles

Source: Journal of AHIMA - Coding Notes | Journal of AHIMA

Publication Date: June 2015

With the consistently rising value of highly skilled outpatient coders, numerous HIM departments are moving to a staffing model that employs coding professionals who are well versed in coding both inpatient and outpatient encounters. Coders in the profession today should possess a mastery....

Author: Kostick, Karen M.; Sanvik, Gina

Source: Journal of AHIMA - Coding Notes | Journal of AHIMA

Publication Date: June 2015

All coding professionals require the right clinical documentation at the right time in order to assign an accurate code. This article reviews just what that requirement entails for ICD-10-PCS coding.

ICD-10-PCS Scope of Work


On October 1, 2015, hospital inpatient pr....

Author: Barta, Ann

Source: Journal of AHIMA - Coding Notes | Journal of AHIMA

Publication Date: May 2015

The implications of ICD-10-CM/PCS for healthcare reimbursement is a topic at the top of everyone’s mind in the healthcare industry these days. As healthcare organizations continue to prepare for the transition to ICD-10-CM/PCS on October 1, 2015, an essential and important element of a su....

Author: Drake, Suzanne P

Source: Journal of AHIMA - Coding Notes | Journal of AHIMA

Publication Date: May 2015

The organizations health information management professionals serve are reliant on their understanding of outpatient coding and reporting conventions to ensure that the reimbursement received by facilities is accurate and not subject to improper payment audits.


The National....

Author: DeVault, Kathryn

Source: Journal of AHIMA - Coding Notes | Journal of AHIMA

Publication Date: April 2015

With just six months until the implementation of ICD-10-CM and ICD-10-PCS, now is the time for HIM professionals to re-evaluate the state of their facility’s implementation plan and make any necessary adjustments to ensure a successful transition. Previous delays may have slowed down....

Author: Stanfill, Mary H

Source: Journal of AHIMA - Coding Notes | Journal of AHIMA

Publication Date: April 2015

The call for HIM professionals to develop measures and metrics that guide HIM efforts is not entirely new. Linda Kloss, MA, RHIA, FAHIMA, president of Kloss Strategic Advisors and former chief executive officer at AHIMA, discussed the importance of these measures in a Journal of AHIMA art....