Randy,
For many years we utilized A-life before it was bought out & changed. After that, and being a current Imagine user (going on our 6th year here), we have tried many of the "bolt-on coding products" and not been happy at the grade of success nor efficiencies that did not materialize (with previous systems as well as Imagine).
That said, I run all my coding through Imagine only – 260,000+ including PQR codes; 222,300+ without. My screening mamms I have set up so NON-PQR required payors are coded & released without additional intervention. System pops-up PQR windows on the correct CPT's to ensure we're not missing anything. I back up the one in-house coder we have, and I have one remote coder that assists – we do about 55-60% of the coding volume and the remote coder picks up the remainder. CPT cross-walks have been superb, and we continue to work with the AutoCoder option on Imagine (not perfect, but it definitely nabs the standard/easy stuff like Cough on CXR, etc.).
Would be happy to discuss in greater detail – feel free to contact me if you'd like.
Michelle
Michelle R. Juette, CPC, RCC
Business Services Manager
Yakima Valley Radiology
(509) 895-0402 (direct, voice/mail)
(509) 248-0733 (secure fax)
mailto:mjuette@yakrad.com