Don't let the new patient-centered communication standards catch you up short. These standards, which took effect January 2011 and begin affecting survey findings January 2012, cover not only the Rights of the Individual chapter, but the Provision of Care; Human Resources; and Record of Care, Treatment, and Services chapters as well.
According to a survey on coder productivity published in the May edition of MRB, 83% of those with remote coding programs reported that coder productivity either remained the same or increased after a remote coding program was implemented at their facility. That's great news for those considering establishing a remote coding program. And there are many reasons to do so, both for your coding staff and for your hospital.
HHS has released the long-awaited notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) on the changes to the HIPAA accounting of disclosures. The rule, formally titled "HIPAA Privacy Rule Accounting of Disclosures under the HITECH Act," was printed in the May 31 Federal Register.
Editor's note: Each month in 2011, we're celebrating MRB's 25th year with special content, including extra reports and tools, discounts, and contests. Read on to find out how you can win a free 2012 ICD-9-CM Coding Manual.
