Health workforce planning: an analysis of employer demand pertaining to the Victorian medical record administration & diagnostic coding workforces.
In 1990, LaTrobe University introduced the world's first Post-Graduate Diploma in Nosology, in response to unmet demand for diagnostic coders in Victoria. After the first graduates entered employment, a two-part study was undertaken. The composition, employment levels and projected institutional demand for the coding workforce (comprising medical record administrator coders, Nosologists and "unqualified" coders) were ascertained. In parallel, the current employment levels and projected demand for the institutional medical record administrator workforce also were investigated. The institutional variables of major health care role, annual inpatient discharges and operating sector were found to impact upon employment levels and demand for both workforces by current, prospective and non-employers. The study identified a minimal projected demand for nosologists, the reasons for which are postulated, and negligible projected demand for nonqualified coding personnel. The results highlight a health current and projected employer demand for both medical record administrators and medical record administrator coders.
Lincoln School of Health Sciences, LaTrobe University, Melbourne, Victoria.
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K
Robinson
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Ell
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J
Raw
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D
Simpson
D004651:Employment / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D005544:Forecasting; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand / Q000639:trends; D006302:Health Services Research; D006280:Health Workforce / Q000706:statistics & numerical data* / Q000639:trends; D006742:Hospital Bed Capacity; D016304:Hospitals, Private; D006779:Hospitals, Public; D008497:Medical Record Administrators / Q000193:education / Q000706:statistics & numerical data / Q000600:supply & distribution*; D008499:Medical Records / Q000145:classification; D008500:Medical Records Department, Hospital / Q000706:statistics & numerical data / Q000639:trends; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014739:Victoria