CDI Transformation: Moving Beyond Traditional Query Models

Clinical Documentation Integrity (CDI) programs have traditionally centered on retrospective and concurrent query processes to clarify documentation and support accurate coding. However, the healthcare landscape is evolving rapidly, and CDI programs must adapt to meet new demands related to real-time review, data integrity, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

This session will explore how CDI is moving beyond the traditional query-focused model toward a more integrated and proactive approach. Participants will examine the limitations of relying solely on queries and the need to expand CDI efforts into areas such as provider education, early documentation review, audit readiness, and cross-functional alignment.

The session will also address how advancements in technology, increased regulatory scrutiny, and changing payer expectations are influencing the future of CDI. Attendees will gain insight into how CDI professionals can enhance their role by contributing to broader organizational goals, including denial prevention, quality performance, and risk adjustment accuracy.

Practical strategies will be shared to help organizations evolve their CDI programs, including opportunities to improve workflow efficiency, strengthen collaboration with physician advisors and other stakeholders, and support documentation accuracy across the continuum of care.

• Describe the traditional CDI model and its limitations
• Explain why CDI must evolve beyond the query process
• Identify new roles and responsibilities for CDI professionals
• Recognize opportunities for CDI involvement in denial prevention and quality initiatives
• Describe the impact of technology and data on CDI workflows
• Apply strategies to expand CDI beyond retrospective and concurrent review
• Enhance collaboration between CDI, physician advisors, and other stakeholders
• Support a more proactive and integrated CDI program

• The traditional CDI model and query process
• Limitations of a query-focused approach
• Live Q&A Session
• Drivers of change in CDI practice
• Expanding CDI roles and responsibilities
• CDI involvement in denial prevention and quality initiatives
• The role of technology and data in CDI evolution
• Provider education as a key CDI strategy
• Interdisciplinary collaboration and workflow alignment
• Building a proactive CDI program
• Future direction of CDI practice
• Live Q&A Session

• Clinical Documentation Integrity (CDI) Directors and Managers
• Clinical Documentation Integrity (CDI) Staff
• Utilization Review (UR) / Case Management Professionals
• Physician Advisors
• HIM / Coding Directors and Managers
• Coding Staff
• Revenue Integrity Directors and Managers
• Revenue Integrity Staff
• Revenue Cycle Leaders
• Denials and Appeals Staff
• Quality and Compliance Teams
• Hospital Administrators
• Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) / Finance Leaders
• Revenue Integrity Analysts
• Denials Management Specialists
• Patient Access / Registration Teams
• Nursing Leadership (e.g., Nurse Managers, Directors)
• Medical Directors
• Compliance Officers
• Health Information Technology (HIT) / EHR Specialists
• Audit and Appeals Specialists