We
have high regard for doctors who take care of the most complex machine in the
world-the human body. Doctor’s job is to interpret and diagnose problems in our
body which is a complicated job. Though not doctors, the health information
technicians like medical coders also have complicated jobs as they are required
to have a strong understanding of various medical diagnoses, treatments and
procedures. Medical coding to a beginner is like learning a new language. It is
difficult in the beginning, but as you start practicing it, it gets easier. The
Medical coding field requires an eye
for detail, organizational skills, medical terminology knowledge and
understanding of human anatomy. To gain a foothold in this profession you can
follow these tips:
Analytical
thinking helps: Using logic and thinking analytically helps in connecting
pieces of information and drawing conclusions. This is very much needed for
medical coders, as they have to decide on the accurate code for a patient’s
medical procedure from thousands of codes available.
Understanding
complex language: People in Medical coding services have to read physician’s notes and then apply codes for the
diagnosis and treatment given to a patient. So, it is of great importance that
you understand the medical language and analyze the complex health records of
patients.
Code
only what is needed: A doctor documents all the services, tests and treatments
provided to the patient accurately as performed with all the necessary details
of patient’s symptoms, complaints, injuries and illnesses. The Medical coding jobs are required of
documenting all these details with appropriate and accurate codes while
maintaining consistency with the doctor’s notes. It is the responsibility of
medical coders to not deviate from what the doctor has documented.
Coding
in correct order: Care has to be taken in not just coding all the procedures
but, putting those codes in correct order. Always mention the code for the
specific reason for the patient’s visit as the first code. There may be
existing symptoms or diagnoses or multiple procedures performed but, always
adhere to the correct order of coding.
Update
your knowledge: For an accurate insurance claim, it is of utmost importance
that you keep updating yourself with the changes happening in Medical coding services, follow the
annual coding changes and adhere to the standard coding guidelines.
Using
appropriate modifiers: Some of the
Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) codes require use of the modifiers.
These modifiers are codes consisting of two digits, two letters or two
alphanumeric characters. The modifiers provide further information on the
service provided to the patient. Adequate care has to be taken by the medical
coders in using the appropriate
modifiers. Remember that all modifiers cannot be used with all CPT and HCPCS
codes and inappropriate use of procedure code modifiers can result in the reduction
in payment or delay in claim procedure.
Never
do overcoding or undercoding: As the insurance claims depend on the medical coding jobs, it is vital
that necessary steps are taken to avoid overcoding or undercoding.
Over
coding refers to coding procedure which leads to higher payments by the insurer
which could be considered as fraud and have legal and financial implications.
Under
coding refers to non-inclusion of codes for services provided and thereby
leading to lower payments by the insurer which results in financial losses to
the healthcare provider.
Medical
coders have great importance in the health care industry, especially in claiming
insurance. In this scenario, it is helpful to remember the above mentioned tips
and follow them to become a successful medical coder.
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