Guest post: Saying farewell to the ACDIS Advisory Board

by Angie Curry, BSN, RN, CCDS

As I am nearing the end of my term serving on the ACDIS Advisory Board it seems natural to reflect not only upon the growth I have seen at ACDIS, but also in the CDI profession.

One thing that remains true in healthcare is that change is inevitable, an integral part of what we do, even more so in our modern world surrounded by technology.

As CDI professionals, we are change managers, which can be challenging as adults tend to avoid change. Technology has allowed CDI professionals more flexibility.  Flexibility in not only where we work but how we work—from days at home, to artificial intelligence, to speech recognition.

One thing that has remained the same is the need for the critical thinking skills to pull it all together with a goal of medical record accuracy. ACDIS has expanded its reach into the outpatient arena, with new ideas and energy around the impact CDI professionals can bring to many areas of outpatient documentation.

CDI staff have embraced knowledge regarding new payment methodologies and taking on DRG denials. The reach of CDI has proven to limitless.

I encourage you to take a seat at the table for as many C-Suite meeting as possible. Never stop asking how CDI can assist with new challenges.  

Learn to discuss how your CDI program is an integral piece of the hospital’s success and be proud to share on every elevator you enter.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve on the board. I have enjoyed every moment! I have found my passion, and I hope you all find yours.

Editor’s note: Curry is a client services manager for Nuance Healthcare, based in Nixa, Missouri, and a member of the ACDIS Advisory Board serving through April 2020. The opinions expressed do not represent a consensus agreement of ACDIS or its Advisory Board. Contact Curry at angie.curry@nuance.com.