@article{10.22454/FamMed.2021.880003,
author = {Zeltzer, Stuart and Vanderhoof, Monique and Garvey, Brian},
title = {Improving Hierarchical Condition Category Coding by Family Medicine Residents Using a Web-Based, Interactive Module},
journal = {Family Medicine},
volume = {53},
number = {3},
year = {2021},
month = {3},
pages = {220-222},
doi = {10.22454/FamMed.2021.880003},
abstract = {Background and Objectives: The proper documentation of Hierarchical Condition Category (HCC) codes is essential for risk-adjusted reimbursement, chart accuracy, and clinical communication within primary care, but represents a significant training gap in resident education. Our goal was to improve the understanding and confidence level of family medicine residents with HCC coding during outpatient primary care visits.
Methods: We developed and distributed a web-based, interactive module to family medicine residents at our academic institution. We assessed module impact through pre- and postsurveys focusing on knowledge, confidence, and experience with HCC coding.
Results: Twenty-eight of 48 preeducation surveys were returned (response rate of 58%), including 16 junior (PGY-1-2) and 12 senior (PGY-3-4) residents. A majority of residents answered each HCC knowledge question correctly. Median baseline confidence with HCC coding for all respondents was 4 (interquartile range [IQR]: 2, 6; scale 0-10; 10=most confident): senior residents 6 (IQR: 5, 7) versus junior residents 2 (IQR: 2, 4). Forty-six percent of respondents noted some previous education on HCC codes, including 75% of senior vs 25% of junior residents. Twenty-six residents completed the educational module. Posttest surveys (n=5, response rate: 19%) demonstrated median confidence of 7 (IQR: 4, 8.5).
Conclusions: Family medicine residents displayed a high degree of knowledge but low confidence with HCC coding. Posteducation surveys suggest the possibility of a positive impact of our e-module, though further intervention roll out and data collection are needed to evaluate this effect.},
URL = {https://journals.stfm.org//familymedicine/2021/march/zeltzer-2020-0389/},
eprint = {https://journals.stfm.org//media/3746/zeltzer-2020-0389.pdf},
}