examples during the meeting so they can practice recording the
procedure properly. Not only does this reinforce the right way to
document the case, but it also lets you proactively fix any prob-
lems.
Avoid being too general
If your group of ophthalmologists is not recording cataract
cases correctly and causing claims mistakes, don't just gather all
of your physicians for an overview on how to improve op notes.
Instead, meet with just the docs who perform cataract cases,
show them what they're currently doing, what you want them to
do and explain why. It may seem obvious, but overgeneralization
is a big reason why many physicians tune out coding and billing
information.
Be precise about questions
Even with the best instruction, your coders are going to need
clarification from your physicians occasionally. Too often, though,
surgeons ignore these requests. Instead of asking a general ques-
tion, tell your coders to phrase their questions in a multiple-choice
format, when possible. For example, if Dr. Jones performs a proce-
dure and indicates there are complications, but doesn't specify
what they are, the coder could send a message saying something
like, "I see there were complications in Ms. Smith's case, but could
you clarify? Was there an infection, post-op fever, respiratory com-
plication or another issue?" By providing options, you're more like-
ly to jog their memory and quickly receive a helpful response.
Don't challenge the doctor's knowledge
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