Is E-code elimination just a smoke screen?
An attempt by tobacco lobbyists to eliminate E codes which can be used to document the effects of secondhand smoke is being opposed by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) in Chicago.
The organization says the lobbying group, Multinational Business Services, sought support from AHIMA for the move, citing the federal Paperwork Reduction Act as the reason. That act gives the U.S. Office of Management and Budget the ability to review government forms like the HCFA 1500 (the universal claim form) and components, such as E codes, to determine their usefulness and cost-efficiency.
The lobbying group suggested that instead of E codes, the Nordic Medico-Statistical Committee (NOMESCO) classification system, which is used in some Scandinavian countries, be used as a substitute. NOMESCO does not include codes that would link secondhand smoke, other environmental factors, or chronic conditions with illnesses or injuries, AHIMA says in a statement.
In a letter to the Health Care Financing Administration, AHIMA supported the collection of E codes, which describe the external causes of injuries and poisonings. "In fact, AHIMA recommends that E code reporting become mandatory in order to assure a comprehensive database of information on external causes," the organization said.
"As health information management professionals, we’re responsible for the integrity of patient records and health information," says Margaret M. Stewart, RRA, AHIMA president-elect, said. "This includes the recording of information, such as E codes, that will enhance patient care and ultimately advance medical science."
HCFA is accepting comments on the use of E codes. Letters should be addressed to: John Burke, Re: HCFA Form 1500, Office of Financial and Human Resources, Management Analysis and Planning Staff, Health Care Financing Administration, 7500 Security Boulevard, Room C2-26-17, Baltimore, MD 21244-1850. Carbon copies of letters to HCFA should be sent to: Allison Eydt, Re: HCFA Form 1500, Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, Office of Management and Budget, 725 17th St., NW, Washington, DC 20503.
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