Four years after they were proposed, CMS has finalized a series of discharge planning changes that went into effect on October 29. The final rule, called Revisions to Discharge Planning Requirements [CMS-3317-F], imposes a number of new requirements—ranging from how to notify patients about their choice in postacute providers to prioritizing patient preferences when developing discharge plans and treatment goals.
The fiscal year (FY) 2020 ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting, released shortly after the FY 2020 ICD-10-CM code release, provide instructions for healthcare professionals on how to appropriately report complex diagnoses. Coders should take time to review these changes that were implemented October 1.
Working remotely has many benefits for employers and employees. A Stanford study found that working from home boosts employee productivity, which was attributed to taking fewer breaks and sick days and working in quieter, more convenient work environments.
In addition to physical and technical safeguards, the HIPAA Security Rule requires covered entities and business associates to implement administrative protections, including workforce training and management.
In today’s virtual environment, with its focus on flexible schedules, organizing the coding function requires consideration of time zones, team member skills, volume of work, and claim-processing schedules.
