VA - Clinical Doc Improv (CDI) & Coding Training - MRAS

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), through the General Services Administration (GSA), is conducting market research to enhance clinical documentation and coding practices across its Western States Network Consortium (WSNC). This initiative aims to improve the quality and accuracy of health records within VISNs 17, 19, 20, 21, and 22. By investing in comprehensive training programs for Clinical Documentation Improvement Specialists (CDIS), clinical providers, coding staff, and nursing informatics champions, the VA seeks to ensure that its healthcare documentation processes are robust and consistent with industry standards.

The contract involves a detailed educational program focusing on Clinical Documentation Improvement (CDI) and coding training. The WSNC Board of Directors proposes acquiring both online and face-to-face training solutions that extend over a base year with four optional years. These training sessions will cover essential topics such as ICD-10-CM/PCS fundamentals, communication strategies between clinical staff and CDIS/coding personnel, identification of common documentation deficiencies, and understanding the implications of accurate diagnosis assignment on reimbursement processes.

Participants in the program will gain expertise in applying official ICD-10-CM guidelines from a CDIS perspective. They will learn best practices for compliant query processes aligned with VHA, CMS, and TJC standards. The curriculum also includes practical skills such as conducting medical record audits to validate ICD-10 codes against claims, identifying documentation gaps or HCC chronic conditions not captured within a year, and developing strategies to address these deficiencies effectively.

The place of performance for this contract spans several VA networks within Texas, Colorado, Washington State, California's Mare Island area, and Long Beach. The program's ultimate goal is not only to enhance individual skill sets but also to foster an environment where accurate clinical documentation supports better patient outcomes through improved data quality used in measuring physician performance.