To ensure accuracy, I begin by thoroughly reviewing the patient's medical records and cross-referencing them with the assigned codes. I use coding guidelines, such as ICD-10-CM and CPT, to verify compliance. I also leverage auditing software to identify discrepancies and conduct peer reviews for additional validation. Staying updated with coding regulations and attending training sessions helps me maintain precision. Finally, I document findings and provide feedback to coders to improve future accuracy.

When disagreements arise, I approach the situation collaboratively. I present the rationale behind my findings, referencing coding guidelines and documentation. I listen to the coder's perspective and discuss the case in detail to reach a consensus. If needed, I escalate the issue to a senior auditor or coding manager for resolution. Maintaining professionalism and fostering open communication ensures that disagreements are resolved constructively, ultimately improving coding accuracy.

I stay updated by regularly reviewing updates from authoritative sources like the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). I attend webinars, workshops, and conferences focused on coding changes. Subscribing to industry newsletters and participating in coding forums also helps. Additionally, I collaborate with colleagues to share insights and ensure our team remains compliant with the latest regulations.

During an audit, I identified a recurring error where a coder consistently undercoded complex procedures, leading to revenue loss. I analyzed the root cause, which was a lack of familiarity with updated coding guidelines. I provided targeted training to the coder and shared detailed feedback. This intervention not only corrected the error but also improved the coder's accuracy and confidence, resulting in better compliance and increased revenue for the organization.

I prioritize tasks by assessing the urgency and complexity of each audit. I use project management tools to create timelines and set milestones. High-priority cases, such as those involving compliance risks or revenue impact, are addressed first. I also delegate tasks when possible and maintain clear communication with stakeholders to manage expectations. Regularly reviewing progress and adjusting priorities ensures that all audits are completed efficiently and accurately.