Clinical Documentation Integrity (CDI) programs are comprised of medical professionals who perform record reviews to ensure clinical documentation reflects the patient’s true clinical picture which is essential for accurate coding, billing, and quality reporting.
While healthcare organizations and industry leaders recognize the immense value of CDI programs as they significantly impact revenue (Becker’s Hospital Review), the growing wage expectations for Clinical Documentation Specialists (CDS) in the United States presents a challenge.
As a cost-effective alternative, many organizations are exploring outsourcing or utilizing offshore resources. Here are three key factors to consider when exploring offshoring CDI: offshore candidate selection, training, and post-training support.
Candidate Selection
Typically handled by the offshore vendor, candidate selection can be a crucial discussion point. In my recent experience, I requested the vendor provide RNs with CDI experience. However, I quickly learned that “CDI experience” can mean different things to different parties. To avoid this confusion, I recommend either clearly defining your qualifications upfront or participating in the selection process to ensure candidates meet your specific expertise requirements.
Training
Training offshore staff usually takes longer and is more intensive compared to onshore resources. While experienced CDI staff in the U.S. can be onboarded swiftly, plan for at least a 12-week orientation period for offshore staff. Given the differences in CDI practices between the U.S. and other countries, provide training as if the candidate were a brand-new CDS in the U.S. to ensure their success.
Post-Training Support
Offshore CDS typically require a higher level of ongoing support and oversight post-training. Based on feedback from healthcare professionals who utilize offshore resources, be prepared to invest more in continuous support to ensure offshore CDS are successful.
Conclusion
Navigating these complexities can be daunting, but Healthrise is here to help! With our expertise in CDI and experience in managing offshore resources, we can streamline your offshoring efforts. From candidate selection and tailored training programs to ongoing support, Healthrise ensures your offshore CDI team is well-equipped to meet your organization’s needs. Partner with Healthrise to optimize your staffing costs without compromising on quality.
Are you interested in connecting with Healthrise to learn more about how we can benefit your health system? Schedule a meeting and connect with our experts today!
Author: Kimbery Moore, Director of Clinical Documentation, Revenue Cycle Management, Healthrise
