Coding in Ireland: Time for Recognition.

Recognition of skilled coders' work within the Irish health system is long overdue. A project being undertaken in Ireland now by the central office for coding at the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) is exploring ways to raise the coders' profile, promote a profession of clinical coders and ensure quality benchmarks for all stakeholders, including the introduction of accredited training. The Hospital Inpatient Enquiry (HIPE) at the ESRI uses ICD-10-AM and trains and supports coders in all aspects of their work. This paper also presents some preliminary findings of a HIPE workforce study undertaken in early 2010. The establishment of a recognised clinical coder profession through engagement with all stakeholders and the accreditation of Irish coder education would enhance the position and recognition of coding as a skilled profession within the Irish healthcare system, and also ensure those data meet the highest national and international data quality standards.