Meet a Member: ‘Take it slow and trust in yourself’

Huma Ahmed, MBBS/MD, MBA, CCDS, CDIP, CCS, is an area director of CDI at Kindred Healthcare in Pearland, Texas. She was a practicing physician before entering the CDI field seven years ago. 

ACDIS: Why did you get into this line of work? 
Ahmed: It was interesting to me all the things that happen on the backend after seeing a patient. The administrative side of the hospital was always intriguing to me, so CDI offered me the chance to explore further.

ACDIS: What has been your biggest challenge? 
Ahmed: My biggest challenges have been related to getting facility buy-in.

ACDIS: What has been your biggest reward?
Ahmed: I absolutely love it when I can have a conversation with other physicians, and they are absolutely shocked as to much their documentation matters. After that they more engaged and have a greater desire to complete queries and ask questions.

ACDIS: How has the field changed since you began working in CDI?
Ahmed: I have noticed that facility members are now more aware of CDI and the importance of us needing admin support.

ACDIS: What has been your favorite part of participating on the ACDIS Leadership Council?
Ahmed: It’s nice to be a part of a community of people eager to learn and come together to help and support others looking for answers.

ACDIS: What piece of advice would you offer to a new CDI specialist?
Ahmed: I started out with no confidence thinking that I don’t know enough. Looking back now I would say to have patience. You can’t know everything, it takes time and things are ALWAYS changing. Take it slow and trust in yourself. You got this!

ACDIS: If you could have any other job, what would it be? 
Ahmed: I genuinely love what I do, knowing that I am making a difference. I enjoy doing facility and physician education sessions.

ACDIS: What was your first job?
Ahmed: In high school I worked two jobs. I worked at a convenience store, and I worked at the local library. It was a great learning experience and taught me how to deal with people in a positive manner.

ACDIS: Can you tell us about a few of your favorite things?

• Vacation spots: I have not had the opportunity to vacation much. I would love to visit Hawaii one day!
• Hobby: I like to play video games!
• Non-alcoholic beverage: Diet Coke
• Foods: I love anything with cheese! Pasta, pizza, and just plain cheese.
• Activity: Watching comedy shows

ACDIS: Tell us about your family and how you like to spend your time away from CDI.
Ahmed: I am a single mom and I work quite a bit. It would be nice to take some time off to focus on my son!

ACDIS: Is there anything else you’d like to add?
Ahmed: It’s important to love what you do and surround yourself by good positive people. Also, know that work will always be there, take some time and enjoy your family.