What should the HIM director do first to improve record completion by on-call physicians?

The most effective first step for the HIM director to take in improving record completion by on-call physicians is to consult with the physician in charge for suggestions. Engaging with the physician in charge allows the HIM director to gather insights directly from those who understand the challenges and workflow of on-call physicians. This collaboration can uncover specific barriers to timely record completion that may not be apparent through other methods.

By consulting the physician in charge, the HIM director can obtain actionable feedback that may lead to tailored solutions, such as workflow adjustments, additional training, or improved communication strategies. This proactive approach fosters collaboration and encourages a culture of accountability and support, which is essential for enhancing overall compliance with documentation requirements.

Without this initial consultation, other actions, such as posting reminders or sending deficiency notices, may not address the root causes of the delays in record completion and could potentially lead to frustration among physicians rather than encouraging compliance.