Using a computer-assisted coding system (CAC) to create clinical documentation can improve productivity, reduce rework and outsourcing claims, and improve quality metrics. Despite its benefits, however, there are a few drawbacks.
Cost
An automated coding system decreases coding mistakes and increases revenue cycle accuracy. Additionally, it is more effective and raises coder productivity. More significant reimbursements and fewer denials can result from accurate coding.
A computer-assisted coding system allows coders to assign the correct billing statement codes to medical documents automatically. It also analyzes medical documents and alerts coders to possible errors. It can also be used to detect opportunities for unclaimed revenue.
It can also improve revenue cycle efficiency by reducing the time required to produce a claim. The higher the coding accuracy, the more specific the code is, and the more likely the physician will be reimbursed. The increase in coding specificity can also reduce the number of audits and audit denials.
A computer-assisted coding system has increased in popularity over the last several years. As a result, many healthcare organizations are now looking at using computer-assisted coding technology to increase coding productivity and revenue.
Computer-assisted coding software is designed to be accessed remotely via the Internet. The software is often accessed through HTTP IP/TCP, although other protocols are also used. It uses natural language processing to analyze documents and determine the correct medical codes.
Improved productivity
Using computer assisted coding system (cacs) has proven to be an effective way to reduce coding errors and increase productivity. This technology identifies key terms in medical documents and suggests codes to human coders. As a result, it helps coders process more charts with better accuracy, thereby reducing backlogs.
A recent study found that improved coding accuracy could reduce denials and increase revenue. In addition, it was found that coders who could produce cleaner codes were more confident in their work.
Using computer-assisted coding technology also allows coders to navigate more complex charts easily. This technology helps identify vital terms and high-priority cases. It can improve efficiency and productivity in other areas of practice.
Its use also allows healthcare organizations to comply with payer requirements and reduce rebilling. In addition, computer-assisted coding helps coders produce correct codes the first time, reducing denials.
Computer-assisted coding technology also reduces the time required to produce a claim. It is estimated that the number of denials could be reduced by up to 50 percent. In addition, the time spent reading patient records is reduced.
Quality metrics
Identifying the quality metrics of a computer-assisted coding system can help healthcare service providers to improve patient safety, reduce costs, and streamline coding processes. This paper investigates the quality metrics of the encoding support system that generates medical code lists. We also consider the potential impact of new technologies, such as artificial intelligence, on the coding process.
We examined the quality metrics of computer-assisted coding systems by comparing three of the most popular products. We used simulated and accurate data to compare information quality points of code lists generated by the three methods.
For the computer-assisted coding (CAC) system to work, it must interface with hospital information systems and be integrated with other systems. However, several challenges exist. These include interoperability, data storage, and data archival. Using the correct codes is essential, but inaccurate documentation can lead to inaccuracies.
In a published study, the Medical Group Management Association highlighted the rise in quality-related remuneration over the previous two years. It also outlined the increase in compensation tied to value-based outcomes. The report also showed that 42 percent of medical groups tie an element of their compensation plans to quality performance metrics.
Reduction in the need for outsourcing and reworking claims
Using a Computer Assisted Coding (CAC) system has proven to be a critical factor in reducing the need for outsourcing and reworking claims. It is because it helps healthcare providers improve the accuracy of their coding. In addition, it increases the first pass resolution rate, which means fewer rework claims and increased revenue.
CAC also increases the quality of data in healthcare organizations. Coding errors make up the majority of complex claim denials. These errors can result in denials for non-covered services and affect the bottom line. However, if coding accuracy is improved, it will significantly reduce the need for outsourcing and reworking claims.
Having a CAC system also helps reduce the cost of claims denials. These denials are costly, with the average cost per claim being about $25. Furthermore, practices lose 1% to 5% of their net patient revenue because of denied claims. It translates to $2,500 to $35,000 per month.
Additionally, CAC can help improve productivity. Identifying trends in denials can provide feedback to employees and help them improve their denial management strategies.
