Writing Effective Physician Queries Course

Description

Among the various tasks involved in medical coding, composing physician queries can often pose a significant challenge, second only to selecting the principal diagnosis. This course provides a concise overview of the historical context of physician queries and the circumstances in which they should be generated. Participants will gain insight into what defines an effective query and techniques for steering clear of leading queries through the examination of illustrative examples. Ample opportunities will be provided for hands-on practice in composing non-leading queries.

Included Lessons:

Introduction to Writing Effective Physician Queries
Brief History of Queries
When Should Queries be Written
What is a Leading Query
Use of Yes/No Query Format
AHIMA Practice Briefs and Journal of AHIMA Articles
Query Writing Exercises
Summary of Writing Effective Physician Queries

Key Takeaways

In this course, you will master the art of physician query writing in the realm of medical coding. We will explore the fundamental principles and challenges associated with this critical aspect of healthcare documentation. From understanding the historical context of queries to learning when and how to initiate them, you will gain invaluable insights and practical skills. By the end of this course, you will be well-equipped to craft effective, non-leading queries that contribute to accurate coding, compliance, and the delivery of patient-centered care.

Understanding the Importance of Physician Queries: Recognize the vital role physician queries play in ensuring accurate and complete medical coding.
Challenges in Query Writing: Learn why writing physician queries can be challenging, particularly in avoiding leading queries that may inadvertently influence physician responses.
Avoiding Leading Queries: Learn techniques to craft queries that seek clarification without introducing bias or leading the physician to a particular diagnosis or treatment option.
Practical Query Writing Exercises: Engage in hands-on practice by composing non-leading queries in various medical coding scenarios, gaining confidence and proficiency.

What is the significance of physician queries in medical coding, and why are they considered challenging?

Physician queries play a crucial role in medical coding as they help ensure accurate and complete documentation of patient diagnoses and procedures. They can be challenging because they require effective communication with physicians to clarify ambiguous or missing information in medical records. Additionally, crafting queries that do not inadvertently influence the physician's response (leading queries) can be quite demanding.

What is a leading query and why should it be avoided?

A leading query is a type of physician query that unintentionally suggests a specific diagnosis or treatment option to the healthcare provider. It can bias the physician's response and potentially compromise the accuracy and integrity of the medical record. Avoiding leading queries is essential because they can lead to inaccurate coding, compliance issues, and may not reflect the true clinical picture of the patient.

How will this course help me improve my skills in writing non-leading queries?

This course will enhance your proficiency in composing non-leading queries by providing historical context, guidelines, and practical examples. You will learn to identify situations where a query is necessary, understand the key elements of an effective query, and practice writing queries that seek clarification without biasing the physician's response. Through hands-on exercises, you'll gain the confidence and skills needed to excel in this essential aspect of medical coding.

About our Medical Coding Courses

HIAlearn courses are developed to educate the coder in specific coding topics that have proven to be problematic. They are designed to focus on one area in detail, providing the coder with a thorough clinical knowledge of the diagnosis or procedure utilizing videos, photos, and valid websites to aid the coder in fully understanding the topic. Official coding advice and scenarios are utilized to integrate the clinical knowledge provided. Upon completion, the coder will have a thorough knowledge of clinical concepts and coding guidelines of the particular topic. Participants have the option to submit their completion certificates to AHIMA, with a selection also available for AAPC CEU(s). Learn more about us »