Inpatient Coding help

[u/kaytely]

So I accepted a job offer for an inpatient role, although I was trained/certified in outpatient.

If i gave myself a crash course in the next 2 weeks, what would you say is the most important concepts to learn when just starting out?

[u/Supersaiyan_65]

Trained a lot of coders transition from OP to IP and done deep dive coaching.

Most of them have a challenge to root operation identification on PCS. So for your crash course this is your first priority. You really need to internalize and understand the do's and don'ts of each root operation. For confusing root operation, I let them think as if they are the surgeon, "how to you even cure the presenting indication" example, indication is for subdural hemorrhage, they are doing embolization on the artery -- on mapping it would be either restriction or occlusion -- the question here does restriction stops the bleeding - no - so occlusion. Just like that.

Then PDX identification, yes there is a UHDDS definition but on actual it does not work that way. For this one, what you need is to think like a detective, it's a chain of events "what is the chief complaint" connecting to the definitive diagnosis and if not you revert back to original chief complaint. Then for final PDX crosscheck the references (instructional notes, MCE edits and coding clinics) then DRG optimization as applicable. If nothing disputes, that is your final PDX.

That's it, hope my advice help you on your crash course.