In CDS Snapshot, we're profiling CDSs from across Australia and ICD-10-AM countries. We'll get to hear how they got into the role, their triumphs, and challenges they've faced. CDSs contribute enormously to patient safety, quality of care, health service sustainability, and CDI as a whole, and we want them front and centre!
In the latest edition we’re talking to Christine Boktor, National Coding and CDS Manager at Healthe Care. Hear about Christine's CDI journey that started with building a CDI team in the UAE, developing a passion for data quality and creating those "light bulb" moments when educating clinicians.
Tell us about your current role
I’m the National Coding Auditor at Healthe Care, my role involves:
What is your career background, and how has that contributed to your ability to work as a CDS?
I have a double Bachelor’s degree in Health Information Management and Health Sciences. I have worked in both the public and private health sectors in various roles involving clinical coding/auditing and management. The role that opened the door for me in the CDS space was my role at Cleveland Clinic in Abu Dhabi where I was the CDI Department Manager. In that role I was responsible for building a team of CDSs and running a successful, well-rounded CDI department.
What made you apply for a CDS role?
I enjoy challenges and the CDS role presented as a new and exciting venture. The opportunity to educate and to work with clinicians appealed to me as I always felt that there was a knowledge gap between clinical coding and clinical documentation - I wanted to close that gap!
What does your typical day look like?
My typical day involves auditing clinical coding and analysing data from those audits. I respond to ad hoc questions from the clinical coding team and the CDS team. I like to be a source of knowledge and support.
What was the moment CDI really “clicked” for you?
When I was in my role with Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi I went to Cleveland, Ohio to learn about their CDI department. It was there that it clicked how important that role is in representing patient complexity and improving the data we have on our patients.
How would you describe your personal CDI philosophy?
One of the most valuable things a leader can do with their metrics is interpret them. Those individualised metrics may shine a spotlight on areas for improvement, but they can also show you the progress you’ve already made.
What is the biggest challenge you have faced as a CDS?
Capturing all the different tasks the CDS role does in depth is challenging and always a work in progress.
What is the most memorable “win” you’ve had?
When I performed my first education session with clinicians and I was discussing the criteria in the Australian Coding Standards. Seeing the “light bulb” moment they have when reflecting on their documentation habits was a huge win for me!
If you could talk to yourselves 10 years ago and tell them you’re now a CDS, what do you think they would say?
This is amazing! I can’t believe we’re not doing this already!
Favourite DRG?
A06A
Favourite additional diagnosis?
Sepsis and Acute Respiratory Failure (both types)
What are you excited about in the future of your role?
I’m excited to grow my team of CDSs and do amazing work at Healthe Care!
Want to be the next CDS profiled on CDS Snapshot? Contact us at community@cdia.com.au.
We invite you to share your ideas, experiences, and achievements in CDI by submitting content to the CDIA Community! Contact community@cdia.com.au to learn more.