decisionhealth Newsletters, Coder Pink Sheets - 2015 Issue 6 (June)
Quality reporting: Include body mass index in your reporting list for a measure that’s one and done
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Article Overview
This article explains a quality reporting measure centered on body mass index (BMI) screening and follow-up planning. It is aimed at clinicians, coders, and practice staff who need to understand the measure’s patient population, timing, age-based normal ranges, documentation expectations, and the practical reasons it may be easier to report for quality program purposes. The discussion also notes recent guideline changes and points readers toward workflow tools such as checklists.
Why This Topic Matters
BMI reporting is a common quality measure and can help practices satisfy reporting requirements with minimal complexity when documentation is captured correctly. The article highlights updates and documentation points that can affect whether the measure is successfully reported.
Article Sections
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Overview
Introduces the BMI quality measure and explains why it is often considered a straightforward reporting option for practices. It also frames the article around recent guidance changes that may affect reporting workflows.
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Measure timing, eligible encounters, and reporting window
Covers the general patient population, encounter types, and the timing concepts that affect whether the measure can be reported. The section also discusses how prior information may be used within the allowed reporting window.
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Understand the ‘normal’ BMI ranges
Reviews age-based BMI categories and explains the need to distinguish normal ranges by patient age. It also mentions use of BMI calculation resources and the source of weight and height information.
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Issue a follow-up plan for abnormal BMI
Describes the broad requirement to document a follow-up plan when BMI falls outside the expected range. The section notes the general types of follow-up actions referenced in the article.
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Make life easier with a checklist
Points readers to workflow support tools intended to help staff capture the needed information for reporting. It emphasizes practical use of a checklist and a coding chart.
What You Will Learn
- What the BMI quality measure is intended to capture
- Which patients and encounter types are generally relevant
- How timing and prior documentation can affect reporting
- How age-based BMI ranges factor into the measure
- What broad categories of follow-up planning are discussed
- How workflow tools can support capture of required elements
Who Should Read This
- Physicians
- Coders
- Quality reporting staff
- Practice administrators
- Clinical documentation staff
Codes Discussed
Code Ranges Discussed
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