Special Report: Use this blueprint to plan your next chart audit

Why This Topic Matters

Chart audits help practices identify documentation and billing issues, support compliance efforts, and find services that may have been underbilled. The article helps readers think through how to organize audits in a way that fits their practice size, resources, and specialty needs.

Article Sections

1. Who should perform your chart review? Consultants vs. internal auditors

   Compares the relative advantages and drawbacks of using outside consultants versus in-house staff for chart review programs. The discussion focuses on practice workflow, credibility, objectivity, and physician education.

2. Knowledge and experience

   Discusses the role of coding and billing knowledge in audit effectiveness. It also addresses how reviewers stay current with changing guidance and specialty-specific needs.

3. Familiarity with the practice

   Reviews how familiarity with office processes, staff, and documentation systems can affect audit efficiency and perspective. It also considers the value of a fresh review.

4. How much will it cost?

   Outlines general cost considerations associated with hiring a consultant and notes factors that can influence pricing. It also mentions on-site and off-site review approaches.

5. Try the middle ground

   Describes blended approaches that combine internal review with periodic consultant input. The section focuses on phased training and long-term audit support.

6. How many charts should you review?

   Summarizes guidance on audit sample size and how practices may adjust review volume over time. The section frames chart counts in relation to practice resources and prior review results.

7. Internal chart review checklist

   Provides a broad checklist of documentation and billing areas commonly examined during internal reviews. The checklist covers accuracy, completeness, consistency, and record maintenance topics.

8. Hiring a consultant? Use these tips:

   Offers general advice on evaluating consultant background, references, experience, and credentials before engagement. It also highlights the importance of specialty alignment and caution around unsupported marketing claims.