Demand for computer-assisted coding software is growing as healthcare organizations look to improve core revenue cycle functions, according to a Transparency Market Research report.
Computer-assisted coding software allows clinical documentation improvement specialists to search medical records housed in EHRs for keywords to verify and qualify medical information during coding. Computer-assisted coding can also help resolve issues in insurance claim reimbursement, audits and for other billing purposes. The software can be cloud-based or an on-site product.
Here are three findings on the computer-assisted coding market.
1. Market drivers and inhibitors
The vast implementation of EHR systems in hospitals and health systems is boosting demand for computer-assisted coding software. Coders use clinical documentation entered into EHRs to assign the correct codes for billing purposes. As Medicare and commercial payers increasingly use ICD-10 codes to evaluate physician performance and calculate reimbursement rates, high-quality and efficient coding is a top priority for many hospitals.
The computer-assisted coding market faces pressure from hospital-based buyers who are deterred by the high upfront costs associated with implementation processes, according to the report.
2. Outlook
North America and Europe will see the highest demand for computer-assisted coding software resulting from their governments' stringent healthcare regulations. Demand for the software is expected to grow in China, India and Brazil as the countries increasingly develop their healthcare infrastructures.
3. Key computer-assisted coding software providers
- Cerner
- MModal
- Optum
- PlatoCode
- QuadraMed Affinity
- 3M Company
- Artificial Medical Intelligence
- Craneware
- McKesson
- Dolbey Systems
- Precyse Solutions
- Nuance Communications
- Trucode