You have been asked to lead a Clinical Documentation Improvement (CDI) initiative.

You have been asked to lead a Clinical Documentation Improvement (CDI) initiative. This small rural hospital is a 30-bed, fully paper-record facility. Although the purchase and implementation of an EHR is not feasible at this time due to the accompanying price tag and other impacting factors, the hospital administrator recognizes the importance of developing a CDI program is ultimately, a step in the right direction. 

Description of  what  Clinical Documentation Improvement (CDI) is?

What are the benefits of implementing a CDI program?

What are the consequences of not implementing such a program?

List and briefly discuss at least six elements of a sound health record; from the perspective of a CDI program emphasis on quality documentation practices

Explain the significant role of physicians as it relates to timely, accurate, complete, and legible health record documentation practices and the timely response to physician queries within 48-72 hours upon receipt. Outline the process of the department’s physician query process

Explain how the HIM department will lead the initiative. How the HIM staff can/will assist the Chief of Staff and the entire pool of practicing physicians

Devise a six (6) month timeline that outlines the planning, designing, and implementation of the proposed CDI program.