Each time a patient receives healthcare services at a physician’s office, ambulatory surgical center (ASC), hospital or an outpatient facility, the provider must document the services performed. It is now the medical coder’s job to review the documentation contained in the patient’s chart to abstract and assign the appropriate codes. He/she then submit these codes for claims processing to the insurance company.
There are three code sets which represent the services provided: CPT (Current Procedural Terminology), the diagnosis (ICD-10) and often time HCPCS (Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System). The CPT is the procedure performed to treat the diagnosis (ICD-10). HCPCS coding system are codes covering medical supplies and services.
Is Medical Coding and Medical Billing the same thing?
No. Although a medical biller and coder may be the same person or work together, their roles are quite different. The medical coder primary responsibility is the abstracting and assigning of codes for insurance claims submission. The coder usually works closely with the physicians querying them regarding the services he/she has provided. The coder may require additional documentation from the physician to correctly code the patient’s encounter.
The medical biller is more directly involved with the insurance companies and patients. He/she often speak with patients regarding their payment obligations, verify benefits are covered and follow up on insurance claims. Medical billers and medical coder’s positions are often intertwined. Their role may be performed by one person or two separate individuals depending upon the facility.
Is Medical Coding difficult?
Medical coding is not difficult; however, there is a but! New coders just starting out can find it challenging. Medical coding requires the knowledge of anatomy, physiology and medical terminology. Attention to detail is critical. Coding is like solving a puzzle or a mystery. We often call ourselves detectives. You have to dig down into those operative notes and abstract the correct codes for the patients encounter. It takes a little bit of grunt work in the beginning. But if you are willing to dedicate yourself to your studies, the challenges of coding will be easy to overcome.
Where can I work once I receive my Coding Certification?
Medical coders have the opportunity to wear many hats ranging from coding specialist, coding compliance officer and clinical data specialist just to name a few. They work in an array of specialties and settings such as:
Hospitals Insurance Companies
Clinics Family Practices
Consulting Firms Remote Coder (Work from home)
Medical Laboratories Outpatient Care Centers
Travel Coder Dentist Offices
What is a Medical Coder's salary?
Coders earn an average of $34,000 to $75,000+ a year. Coders pay range vary based upon geographic location, experience and certification. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts stable employment outlook for medical coders.
What should I expect with online learning?
A benefit to online learning is the flexibility. However, you must be able to manage your time accordingly. While managing your time is just as important in the traditional class setting, you must be very discipline with online learning. A few of the communication vessels utilized in this course are live video chat, web-conferencing, messaging, email, discussion post and interactive assignments.
Will I receive my Coding Certification once I've completed my course with MedCode Institute?
No. Once you have successfully passed your coding course with MedCode Institute you will receive your CPC Course Completion Certificate accredited by the AAPC. MedCode Institute will schedule your certification examination with the AAPC.
What type of certification will I receive once I pass the Coding Certification exam?
Once you have passed your certification test, you will receive your CPC certification (Certified Professional Coder) from the AAPC. This certification is nationally recognized all over the Unites States and abroad.
Where will I take my Coding Certification examination?
The AAPC (American Academy of Professional Coders) is recognized as the national industry standard leader of professional coders. There are hundreds of testing locations throughout the United States, Bahamas, Germany, India, Philippines and United Arab Imirates. Prior to testing your instructor will assist you in scheduling at a location near you.
Can I use my books during the Coding Certification examination?
You may bring your CPT manual, ICD-10 Manual and HCPCS manuals. No other books are allowed i.e medical dictionary, medical terminology book, student workbook, etc. Throughout the course your instructor will provide you with tips on ways to prepare for the exam.
How many times can I take the Coding Certification examination if I don't pass the first time?
You may take the certification examination as often as you like. If you fail it the first time, you are allowed to take it the second time free of charge.
Why should I get my certification? Can't I just work as a Coder if I know what I'm doing?
Certified Medical Coders are high in demand and earn on average $7,000 more than their non-certified counterparts.
"In today’s world of privacy and compliance concerns, certification is the industry standard. Because certification shows that you are proficient in your area and are committed to quality healthcare by disseminating quality information, it’s one of the first qualifications that employers look for when they review you as a potential candidate, and it’s an asset when you’re negotiating a salary". Karen Smiley from Medical Billing and Coding for Dummies
