Lynette Thom, RHIA, CCS, CDIP
Biography
Lynette brings more than 15 years of experience in the field of healthcare. Her experience includes a wide variety of services in the health information management (HIM)-related revenue cycle. She is a subject matter expert in hospital coding for all patient types – inpatient, outpatient surgery, observation, emergency department, psychiatric and geri-psychiatric health as well as chemical dependency, and dental services. Her work has included performing Recovery Audit Contractors (RAC) review management, denials management, teaching ICD-10-CM/PCS coding and developing coding policies and procedures. Ms. Thom works with coders and physicians in hospitals around the country to improve clinical documentation and coding quality.
Hear from Lynette Thom
Position Statement Question
Where do you think your skills, abilities, and strengths fit in with the CCHIIM mission?
As a CCHIIM Commissioner, I will bring an in-depth experience in and understanding of the HI and wider healthcare industries. I have proven experience working with diverse groups and know how to work toward a consensus for a common goal. Coding, CDI, hospital quality management, physicians, HIM leadership, and finance are some of the groups that I worked with. My HI experience has been in several areas, including working as an instructor for the RHIT program; privacy, security and release of information officer; ICD-10 trainer; consultant; and my current role in coding audit and education working with coding, CDI and quality management. I have served on the board of directors for the Indiana CA (IHIMA), including as president, delegate, and legislative committee member. My role as legislative chair for Oregon (OrHIMA) required I work with the Oregon Hospital Association and trial lawyers to write a senate bill that was Oregon’s precursor state law before the federal HIPAA law. Lifelong learning and professional development have been key to my success in the HI industry and will guide me as Commissioner. Leadership, collaboration and innovation are the strengths I will bring to fit in with the CCHIIM mission.