Potential Impacts on Quality Reporting: A Closer Look into FY 2020 Changes

As organizations continue to move through various implementation models of quality vs. quality payment, it is imperative that no stone is left unturned.  

At a macro level, the details of an ICD-10 code assignment may not seem impactful to some departments. So in many cases, the 2020 FY IPPS changes do not pose any significant alterations, certainly not from a surface level.  However, taking a closer look into the details, Axea Solutions explored the various changes, and as a result, some areas stood out. 
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For instance, Pressure Ulcers codes are going to increase in level of detail, to include deep tissue damage of an anatomic site. Though seemingly inconsequential on its surface, this is significant, as it may affect an organizations methodology for querying, educating, and monitoring documentation. Typically the implementation of these changes is not accomplished as swiftly as they should be. Once the changes are accepted the expansion of detail of Pressure Ulcer codes should be considered and addressed in a timely fashion. Inaccuracy in documenting Pressure Ulcers can result in many negative consequences that can affect cost and risk factors.

Is your organization aware of all the changes and the climate change of the potential impact on quality reporting? The Axea Quality Control Team is urging organizations not to overlook quality improvement when assessing the effects of these changes and how changes can affect scoring if inadequately or poorly assigned. Communication between the HIM and quality management departments are a good place to start in resolving these types of issues and addressing quality improvement and monitoring. Interdepartmental collaboration within an organization and taking a proactive approach is critical in assessing the potential impact. 
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Upcoming Webinar

Join Axea’s credentialed experts in an upcoming webinar presented by GA HFMA to gain insight into the most significant elements of coding changes in the IPPS payment system and understand the details of important changes to the FY 2020 ICD-10-CM/PCS codes. Organizations will be provided guidance on how to develop a plan to address changes.
​Click here to Register and Learn more.