Documentation Specificity: Details that Really Matter Episode 196

Pour yourself a fresh cup and join us, because in Episode 196 we're tackling a topic that is more critical than ever: Documentation Specificity.


Our phenomenal Paula Digby is here to ask the big question: Are you getting enough specificity in your documentation? And really, what does it matter?


Well, it turns out, it matters a lot. With auditors, payers, and quality measure entities hanging on your every word, those precise clinical details have become the foundation of your entire operation.


We're going to dive into why accurate, specific documentation is absolutely crucial for supporting the correct diagnosis codes. When codes are incorrect, it’s not just an administrative hiccup—it has real consequences! We're talking about impacts on payment, patient care coordination, and even your organization's quality measures.


Paula will share some eye-opening examples, including how recent audits have found overpayments (and underpayments!) all linked back to a lack of coding specificity. She'll also touch on some of the real-world challenges—like provider burnout and staffing shortages—that can unfortunately contribute to less-than-perfect diagnosis selection.


But don't worry, it's not all doom and gloom! We'll wrap up by discussing proactive strategies for correct coding, including the power of internal audits and, of course, focused staff education.


Tune in to get Paula's expert take on tightening up those details! And as always, Coffee with the Coder® LOVES your questions! Send us your tricky documentation scenarios—let’s talk through them!