Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
A: AHIMA has defined Computer-Assisted Coding (CAC) as use of computer software to "read" clinical documentation and automatically generate medical codes for review and validation by a trained human coder. CAC does not replace human coders: it is a computerized service to help them work better than ever.
Click here for an Introduction to the PLATOCODE CAC system (video)
Not all computer tools to assist coders can be classified as CAC. For example, a tool that uses decision trees to help a coder select codes will not meet the AHIMA definition of CAC. The distinguishing feature of CAC is that the computer reads the chart and comes up with a set of codes. The coder's role then changes from a data entry role to a validation/audit role, checking and approving the CAC codes. This role change provides much of the efficiency of CAC and also offers additional career opportunities for enthusiastic coders.
Q: Is CAC really done by computer?
A: The PLATOCODE® CAC process is entirely performed by computer. Electronic charts are sent to the PLATOCODE server which "reads" the records and returns a set of codes a few moments later. These codes are then reviewed/audited by your human coders. Under this process, all your coders act as senior coders who review codesets produced by somebody (or something) else rather than doing it all themselves. It's much quicker and less tiring.
A: Your own coding team still codes and signs off your charts. But rather than trawling records looking for relevant diagnoses and procedures, the coder reviews the CAC output and accepts or rejects the results. This new role is less tiring, quicker and more accurate.
Click here for a video showing how the PLATOCODE CAC system fits into your existing process.
Q: How does CAC access my records?
A: The PLATOCODE system does not delve into your systems to extract records. Usually we rely on HL7 feeds used by facilities to send data between systems, or existing interfaces offered by vendors to allow integration with their products. This means that the transfer process is completely transparent and controlled by your facility.
Q: Will you send my records offshore?
A: No.
A: Yes. All PLATOCODE data transmission is covered by 128-bit SSL protection, just like a banking website. In addition, all clinical data in the PLATOCODE system is encrypted using extremely strong Blowfish 448 or AES encryption. Finally, clinical records are erased by us at the first opportunity unless you instruct us to keep them.
Q: Who else gets to see the records?
A: Your own coding team gets to see the records. No PLATOCODE personnel will get to see the records except as part of a quality improvement process requested by you. Apart from that, the entire PLATOCODE CAC process is conducted by machine.
Q: What about HIPAA compliance?
A: The PLATOCODE company provides a standard privacy policy and technical security statement for your HIPAA documentation. In addition, because records are not retained in the PLATOCODE system and are not viewed by human staff, the system is not a "designated dataset" which simplifies HIPAA compliance considerably.
Q: Do I need an expensive new server?
A: No. We will work with your IT Department to decide whether you need an onsite database which should not need its own server. Definitive information on this topic is available on the Technical pages of this site.
A: We charge a per-chart fee for the PLATOCODE CAC process. This is a recurring service expense rather than a capital cost. We also charge a setup fee to cover the costs of implementation and training, but this can be substantially discounted or waived for facilities with higher volumes or that use standard IT systems and commit to use our system for two years. Please Contact us to discuss pricing opportunities for your facility.
Q: How much training will my coders need?
A: The PLATOCODE CAC system integrates with your existing coding process rather than imposing a whole new system. We allow a day's training during our implementation. However, our experience is that experienced coders may not need very much training at all.
Q: How reliable is your service?
A: We have a two-hour maintenance window at around midnight PST once per month. Apart from that the service is extremely reliable.
