KLAS: ICD-10 Concerns Push Providers to Consider CAC Solutions

With concerns about readiness to meet the ICD-10 deadline still top of mind, nearly half of providers are planning to purchase an inpatient computer-assisted coding (CAC) solution within the next two years, according to a new KLAS report — Computer-Assisted Coding: A Glimpse at the Future of HIM Technology.

The report found that many providers believe implementing a CAC solution can make up for some of the lost productivity and reimbursement that result from transitioning to ICD-10.

“Providers worry their staff will not be ready in time for ICD-10. Though the market is young and no vendor has fully proven itself in the inpatient space, provider confidence that computer-assisted coding  technology will ultimately create greater efficiency, productivity, and ICD-10 readiness is high,” said report author Graham Triggs.

For this reason, many providers are looking to pull the trigger on a CAC purchase decision soon. With its large encoder market share, 3M is the most well-known vendor in the space; however, OptumInsight and Dolbey are surging in their visibility among providers, according to KLAS.

The study examines the differences between inpatient and outpatient CAC solutions, top consideration criteria, real and anticipated benefits of CAC, and an in-depth review of all of the major inpatient CAC players, as well as the solutions they offer. Vendors included in the research are 3M, Cerner, CodeRyte, Dolbey, M*Modal, OptumInsight, PlatoCode, Precyse, and QuadraMed.