What is the term for the coding model in which patient records are coded while the patient is still hospitalized?

The coding model in which patient records are coded while the patient is still hospitalized is referred to as the concurrent coding model. In this approach, coders work alongside healthcare providers to document diagnoses and procedures as they occur during the hospital stay. This process enables real-time coding, ensuring that the information is accurate and reflects the patient's current condition and treatment.

Concurrent coding helps improve data quality and ensures that the hospital's billing reflects the care provided. It allows for immediate correction of any discrepancies, promotes compliance with coding guidelines, and aids in the timely submission of claims for reimbursement. This model is essential for facilities that wish to maintain an efficient revenue cycle, as it can enhance the speed and accuracy of coding while reducing the likelihood of denials or delays in payment.

The other models mentioned, such as retrospective coding, involve coding after the patient has been discharged, leading to potential discrepancies and delays in claims processing. Pre-admission coding focuses on coding information before the patient's admission, and prospective coding typically involves coding based on pre-set criteria or guidelines without referencing actual patient records during the care process. These approaches do not utilize real-time information as effectively as concurrent coding does.