Memorandum

To:

Jean Jurek, CEO, Medaille Medical Center

CC:

Teresa Reinhardt, RHIA

From: Erin Frankenberger and Michelle Wisniewski

Date: 11/17/2014
Re:

Coding System Evaluation Plan

After diligent research and careful deliberation, we are recommending that you
consider selecting the 3M Coding system in your quest to enhance Medaille Medical
Centers coding functionality in preparation for the transition to ICD-10. The 3M
Coding System not only offers all of the applications necessary to meet the
requirements for ICD-10, but is also compatible with our current EHR software,
Versasuite 8.1. Also, the use of the same vendor for all coding applications will
minimize the number of interfaces required which will result in reduced installation
and maintenance costs.
Our research of various coding systems and vendors further emphasized the
importance of being prepared for the transition to ICD-10. Of utmost importance
when upgrading our coding system are its ability to integrate with current coding
systems, and other source systems and software, and inclusion of the technology,
functionality and ongoing training and support necessary to meet the requirements of
ICD-10.
Our objective is to receive full, appropriate reimbursement for the services our
facility provides. This goal can be accomplished by implementing a coding system
that allows for the accurate and complete documentation and coding needed to
reflect the healthcare services our organization provides.
Our search for a high quality, cost effective coding system introduced us to a variety
of vendors and systems. Of particular interest to us were 3Ms, CMS and Optums
coding systems.
The accompanying chart compares the functionality of 3M and Optums encoder,
computer-assisted coding and reference software, as well as their clinical
documentation improvement systems, and the CMS Grouper. We feel these

CONFIDENTIAL

November 17, 2014

applications are the minimum necessary to successfully upgrade Medaille Medical

Centers coding practices in preparation for the transition to ICD-10.