Power Point Needed Health Information Management

RUNNING HEAD: INCREASING CREDENTIALED STAFF Page 1

INCREASING CREDENTIALED STAFF Page 2

HIM 301 SEC 401

Increasing Credentialed Staff Numbers

Abstract

This performance improvement (PI) initiative addresses the low number of credentialed Health Information Management (HIM) coding staff at Willow View Medical Center, a concern that directly impacts data quality, regulatory compliance, and workforce sustainability (American Health Information Management Association [AHIMA], n.d.-a). “The Certified Coding Associate (CCA) certification is perfect for those who interpret healthcare data for medical coding and evaluate medical claims. As a CCA, you'll gain knowledge of clinical classification systems, reimbursement methodologies, patient health information, compliance, and more.” (Certified Coding Associate (CCA) | AHIMA, n.d.). A leadership directive requires all employees in roles where credentialing is available to obtain a professional credential within one year, aligning with industry expectations for standardized coding practices and professional competency. While current coders meet productivity standards, many are experienced, aging staff without formal credentials, creating organizational risk related to reimbursement integrity and long-term workforce viability. “As skills-based hiring continues to gain momentum across industries, employers are increasingly prioritizing candidates with specialized expertise.” (AHIMA, 2023). “Recognizing this shift in healthcare and the increasing importance of HI integrity, AHIMA has developed microcredentials for high-demand skill sets demonstrating the HI professional’s proficiency in specialized areas, commitment to skills-based competency, and understanding of industry priorities.” (AHIMA, 2023). The Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) model will guide this initiative by assessing credentialing gaps, implementing supportive interventions such as exam preparation and education resources, monitoring progress, and refining strategies to ensure successful credential attainment. This structured improvement approach supports accurate health data reporting and aligns with national data quality standards emphasized by public health agencies (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2023).). To support analysis and planning, a bar chart was used to illustrate the baseline distribution of credentialed versus non-credentialed staff, clearly demonstrating the magnitude of the credentialing gap. A fishbone diagram was developed to identify root causes contributing to low credentialing rates, including workforce demographics, financial barriers, limited study time, and lack of structured incentives. Additionally, a Gantt chart outlines the 12-month implementation timeline for the initiative, establishing clear milestones and accountability throughout the credentialing process.

Figure 1

Figure 1. Credentialing PI Gantt Chart illustrating the 12-month implementation timeline.

Figure 2

Figure 2. Bar chart showing the percentage of credentialed versus non-credentialed HIM coders.

Figure 3

Figure 3. Fishbone diagram identifying root causes contributing to low credentialed staff numbers.

References

American Health Information Management Association. (n.d.). Certified Coding Associate (CCA). https://www.ahima.org/certification-careers/certifications-overview/cca/

American Health Information Management Association. (n.d.). Certified Coding Specialist (CCS). https://www.ahima.org/certification-careers/certifications-overview/ccs/

American Health Information Management Association. (n.d.). Professional Certification Approval Program (PCAP). https://www.ahima.org/business-solutions/overview/higher-education/pcap/

American Health Information Management Association. (2023). AHIMA microcredentials empower health information professionals to thrive in a skills-based job market. https://www.ahima.org/news-publications/press-room-press-releases/2023-press-releases/ahima-microcredentials/

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Importance of accurate health data coding. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data-standards/index.htm

RUNNING HEAD: INCREASING CREDENTIALED STAFF Page 1

INCREASING CREDENTIALED STAFF Page 2

HIM 301 SEC 401

Increasing Credentialed Staff Numbers

Abstract

This performance improvement (PI) initiative addresses the low number of credentialed Health Information Management (HIM) coding staff at Willow View Medical Center, a concern that directly impacts data quality, regulatory compliance, and workforce sustainability (American Health Information Management Association [AHIMA], n.d.-a). “The Certified Coding Associate (CCA) certification is perfect for those who interpret healthcare data for medical coding and evaluate medical claims. As a CCA, you'll gain knowledge of clinical classification systems, reimbursement methodologies, patient health information, compliance, and more.” (Certified Coding Associate (CCA) | AHIMA, n.d.). A leadership directive requires all employees in roles where credentialing is available to obtain a professional credential within one year, aligning with industry expectations for standardized coding practices and professional competency. While current coders meet productivity standards, many are experienced, aging staff without formal credentials, creating organizational risk related to reimbursement integrity and long-term workforce viability. “As skills-based hiring continues to gain momentum across industries, employers are increasingly prioritizing candidates with specialized expertise.” (AHIMA, 2023). “Recognizing this shift in healthcare and the increasing importance of HI integrity, AHIMA has developed microcredentials for high-demand skill sets demonstrating the HI professional’s proficiency in specialized areas, commitment to skills-based competency, and understanding of industry priorities.” (AHIMA, 2023). The Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) model will guide this initiative by assessing credentialing gaps, implementing supportive interventions such as exam preparation and education resources, monitoring progress, and refining strategies to ensure successful credential attainment. This structured improvement approach supports accurate health data reporting and aligns with national data quality standards emphasized by public health agencies (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2023).). To support analysis and planning, a bar chart was used to illustrate the baseline distribution of credentialed versus non-credentialed staff, clearly demonstrating the magnitude of the credentialing gap. A fishbone diagram was developed to identify root causes contributing to low credentialing rates, including workforce demographics, financial barriers, limited study time, and lack of structured incentives. Additionally, a Gantt chart outlines the 12-month implementation timeline for the initiative, establishing clear milestones and accountability throughout the credentialing process.

Figure 1

Figure 1. Credentialing PI Gantt Chart illustrating the 12-month implementation timeline.

Figure 2

Figure 2. Bar chart showing the percentage of credentialed versus non-credentialed HIM coders.

Figure 3

Figure 3. Fishbone diagram identifying root causes contributing to low credentialed staff numbers.

References

American Health Information Management Association. (n.d.). Certified Coding Associate (CCA). https://www.ahima.org/certification-careers/certifications-overview/cca/

American Health Information Management Association. (n.d.). Certified Coding Specialist (CCS). https://www.ahima.org/certification-careers/certifications-overview/ccs/

American Health Information Management Association. (n.d.). Professional Certification Approval Program (PCAP). https://www.ahima.org/business-solutions/overview/higher-education/pcap/

American Health Information Management Association. (2023). AHIMA microcredentials empower health information professionals to thrive in a skills-based job market. https://www.ahima.org/news-publications/press-room-press-releases/2023-press-releases/ahima-microcredentials/

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Importance of accurate health data coding. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data-standards/index.htm