When to ask for help: Expanding your CDI department

by Linnea Archibald
​Organizations are beginning to realize the value of a well-oiled CDI program and the benefits it brings to the organization as a whole, from correct reimbursement, to accurate quality scores, to decreased risk of denials and better communication about patient care. With this, there is also a growing increase in the areas CDI professionals are asked to review. Once organizational leadership understands the positive impact CDI professionals bring to these new review areas, however, it may be in the cards to hire new staff members. In order to secure these coveted full-time employee (FTE) allotments, CDI leaders need to know when to hire, how to recognize a solid candidate, and how to interview those candidates to ensure they hire the best individual for the job at hand.