Get ready for MS-DRGs: Create an MS-DRG Task Force

Dovetailing with my previous post on MS-DRG staff training, today’s post takes a quick look at some considerations when creating an MS-DRG implementation task force.

Implementation of MS-DRGs will require a coordinated response from many hospital departments, including administration, health information management, patient financial services, medical staff, information systems, quality improvement, and the compliance office. Hospitals must bring together the individuals who will be influential in successfully implementing MS-DRGs. Here are some steps to consider:

• Identify which departments within the facility are impacted by the adoption of MS-DRGs and select a representative from each department
• Select a task force leader who has legitimate authority
• Outline the responsibilities of the task force, including coordinating education programs, developing a communications plan, performing an operational review, and implementing an action plan
• Establish goals, specific objectives, priorities, and time frames

In addition to the steps listed above, be sure to consider the use of outside resources to ease your transition to the new reimbursement system. Ingenix offers an Implementation Guide to Severity-Adjusted DRGs. Check it out here.