Mid-Year Reminder: Prioritize Proper Coding and Documentation

Now that we’ve hit the halfway point of 2021, there is no better time to check in and evaluate how your practice is performing on your quality goals. To confirm you’re getting an accurate understanding of your practice’s performance, it’s critical that you are prioritizing proper coding and documentation.

Medical Risk Adjustment (MRA) coding and documentation are essential to meeting quality-based program criteria, as well as ensuring patient demographics and conditions are accurately captured through HCC codes (Hierarchical Condition Categories). It is important that HCC codes are recaptured on an annual basis to ensure appropriateness of patient care plans and accurate reimbursement rates.

Use the following coding resources to help you during your six-month check-in:

• New 2021 coding resources on the Hub. Visit the VHAN Hub to access updated 2021 coding resources, including a comprehensive HCC Coding Reference Guide listing all the codes available by specialty, a pocket quick reference guide with the most used codes and resources for top chronic conditions.
• Listen to the coding series on the miniVHAN podcast. From the importance of risk adjustment coding to in-depth topics like accurately capturing complex and commonly misdiagnosed health conditions, this series features coding insights from experts.
• Complete the MRA Benchmark Survey.Complete this 5–10-minute survey to benchmark your current performance. Your responses will be assessed by the network quality improvement team and used to offer specific recommendations and education opportunities.
• Watch the latest coding webinar. Learn about vital 2021 coding updates, including changes to evaluation and management (E/M), telehealth, diagnostic and MRA coding.