Hospital Chargemaster Essay

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Define the following terms:
• Hospital charge master:
The Charge Description Master (CDM) commonly known as the chargemaster, is the computerized system used by hospitals to inventory and record services and items provided in various locations in the hospital. The chargemaster is automated and linked with the billing system.

• Coding Systems:
Were developed to standardize descriptions of conditions, services, and items for the purpose of consistent reporting and tracking of conditions and procedures. The coding system consists of numeric and alphanumeric codes that represent a translation of the written description of conditions, services, or items provided as documented in the patient’s medical record. The coding systems required are outlined under HIPAA provisions as the standard code sets for claim submissions. Standard coding systems originally adopted under HIPAA for hospital services included ICD-9-CM, Volume I-III; HCPCS Level I CPT and HCPCS Level II Medicare National Codes; and National Drug Codes (NDC).

• Reimbursement:
The term used to describe the amount paid to the hospital for services rendered, by patients and third-party payers. The purpose of the billing process is to obtain the appropriate reimbursement within a reasonable period after the services are rendered. …show more content…

The account is updated when required to reflect new information or changes in current information. Financial activity is also entered in the patient’s account. The chargemaster is used to record services it is automated and linked with the billing system. Therefore, in order for the chargemaster to work efficiently, the information gathered at the patient registration must be correct, so that when the chargemaster records the services accordingly. In addition the appropriate reimbursement for billing

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