Improving organization’s coding and performance
Episode 38
Nichole Hunt started her career in the health care industry in 1989. In 1992 Ms. Hunt began working towards her HIM credentials and completed the program in 1996. Ms. Hunt worked for the Anesthesia Group at Providence Hospital where she developed a Compliance Program, and participated in PPO Contract negotiations.
In 1999 Ms. Hunt went to work for the Alaska Native Medical Center, and held several prestigious positions which include Professional Coding Department Manager, Business Office Project Manager, Outpatient Coding Department Manager, and Business Resource Center Manager. Among her accomplishments, she developed three successful departments within the hospital, as well as participated as the Project Coordinator for implementation of a new billing system for the Alaska Native Medical Center. Lastly, Ms. Hunt developed a centralized state wide coding and consulting resource for Indian Health Service facilities. Ms. Hunt worked with the Alaska State Medicaid Program in developing new policy, and was part of the Alaska State Medicaid Taskforce.
Ms. Hunt is a current member of the American Academy of Professional Coders, American Health Information Management Association, and the Medical Group Management Association.
Why healthcare? I was working in retail and one of my employees asked if I want to give medical field a try. I thought I can’t do it but I gave it a try. It’s so intriguing, so challenging and it changes so frequently that it was something that kicks my interest and I wanted to explore, I wanted to know more. The more that I am in the medical field, the more that I found that it’s my niche.
Hot Topic that should healthcare leaders agenda: Documentation
How have you created results by doing things differently? It took us 5 years to get this company, I was reluctant relying on the internet and the data that’s out there and now I embrace it and welcome it since. We get reference material and updates pretty much daily and we were able to work together to get codes. People would contact us and ask for help for codings, we’ve been able to give them resource that they can apply and disseminate throughout their facility.
Setbacks that you learned from: Not focusing much on recruitment.
Exciting Projects: Developing a PDI program – more on consulting. A bigger project is to develop a mentorship program and present in the national level.
Nichole 101 Course on Outcomes Improvement:
1.What is the best way to improve healthcare outcomes?
Documentation
2. What is the biggest mistake or pitfall to avoid?
Audit
3. How do you stay relevant as an organization despite constant change?
Provide continuous education
4. One area of focus that should drive everything else is:
Personal relationship with clients and employees
Recommended Book/s:
Medical Billing & Coding Demystified
Closing Thought:
If there is any doubt or question, it’s great to have consultant come in and take a look.
The Best Way To Contact Nichole:
Email – nhunt@codingconcepts.com
Link/s mentioned:
