The Weighted Activity Unit (WAU) effect: evaluating the cost of Diagnosis Related Group (DRG) coding
The Weighted Activity Unit (WAU) effect: evaluating the cost of Diagnosis Related Group (DRG) coding (Wiley).
ABF (activity based funding) is a means of health‐care reimbursement, where hospitals are allocated funding based on the number and mix of clinical activity. The ABF model is based solely on Australian Refined Diagnosis Related Group (AR‐DRG) classifications of
hospital encounters. Each AR‐DRG is allocated a Weighted Activity Unit (WAU) translating to cost value, to determine ongoing funding allocations for each hospital annually.
Aim
We explored cost consequences of AR‐DRG coding variances within our Medical
Oncology department over a 6 month period.
[...]
Conclusion
Clinical note documentation ultimately determines the future funding of our
healthcare system. Appropriate communication between and education of medical
staff and hospital coders is vital to ensure precise documentation and accurate
AR‐DRG coding, for optimal and appropriate reimbursement in this funding
model.
Quelle: Wiley, 20.05.2019