Purposes of a coding audit.

Describe at least 2 purposes of a coding audit.  Describe how coding audits are used in team/Staff performance.

What are the key differences in the Per Code vs. Per Record Method of Scoring referenced in the AHIMA article?

What data is gathered from an audit?  Explain 3 types of data realized in an audit and use examples from your research to explain how a coding manager or HIM Leader would leverage this data for both Team and Individual Coder performance metrics, measurement, and management.

After looking at the article and research, explain the best standard is for audit scoring and the frequency of coder audits.  What do you see as the best practice standard for Quality percentage – what rate should a coder achieve?  What is the best practice for frequency of audits?  Remember – the more frequent, the more resources this takes, so students should use rationale and examples to support the best practices and explain how an organization can best achieve this.

What is the Return on Investment (ROI) to having an internal auditor conduct this work versus an external vendor?  How can an organization plan and budget for either of the two?  If you were the coding manager – which would you prefer, Internal/External, and WHY?

Lastly, how should scores be communicated to the coders?  If a coder falls below the Quality standard, what is the best approach to create an action plan for improvement with the coder?  How would you monitor and communicate with a coder who is on an action plan?