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Line counting methodology has recently become a ‘hot topic’ within the HIM industry. Experiences have shown that some counting methodologies can be vague and confusing. AAI only endorses line-counting methodologies that are clearly defined, demonstrate-able and verifiable. In addition to the method below, the TA+ system can be programmed for Sylvan Line Counting. Sylvan counting is defined as any letter or character on a line equals one line. Since AAMT has not officially endorsed a line counting method for several years, AAI no longer defines an AAMT line counting method.
UNIT OF MEASURE
The unit of measure preferred by AAI and most commonly used by TA+ platform customers is based on a black and white character line consisting of sixty-five (65) characters. Any ASCII character 32-126 (see chart below) in the formatted document is counted, but no more than two consecutive spaces. Line counting includes all header and footer information necessary to derive the final printed appearance and content of the document and to format the electronic document process. The total number of black and white characters is divided by 65 to calculate the total number of lines per transcribed report. Line counting for facility transcriptionist compensation may include or exclude headers and footers.
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VERIFICATION
Healthcare facilities can verify the line counting totals for transcript creation with the TA+ reporting system. This system is configurable for date range, transcriptionist, report type and department. Additionally, facilities may manually count the number of black and white characters on the printed version of a transcribed report for verification purposes when using the ASCII 65 character method described above. AAI understands the importance of line counting as perceived by both managers and transcriptionists. During installation of the TA+ platform, AAI trains facility supervisors to accurately set up line counting methods and any header or footer exclusions. Additionally, the integrated reporting from Reporting+ can be used to verify invoices from A+Network Affiliates.
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