Medical Coding Info
A medical coder analyzes patient examinations information and files, and assigns numeric codes for every diagnosis and treatment recommendation. This procedure is followed so that the insurance company can bill the patient properly for the treatment he or she received by the physician or hospital.
The medical coding system was developed so that a universal health care treatment language could be used, making it simpler for insurance companies and the government to read and understand patient claims.
Every health care provider needs a Medical Coder to assign codes to patient records and bills. Therefore, Medical Coding professionals are highly in demand, and job openings are only expected to increase in the future.
The Medical Coder works hand-in-hand with the medical biller to process bills and submit them to the insurance companies. Depending on the size of an office, the duties of a Medical Biller and a Medical Coder may be completed by one person.
Medical Billing Codes are used for the following purposes in the health care system:
• Noting patient symptoms and alerting other health care providers of patient allergies that are potentially life-threatening.
• Documenting treatment methods so the insurance company can provide payments.
• Record keeping and administrative functions
• Analyzing treatment and coming up with new and necessary treatment for neglected areas
Medical Coders work in the following venues:
• Hospital Outpatient
• Hospital Inpatient
• Doctor’s Offices
• Clinics
• Specialty Clinics
• At Home
Education and Training
Though, a college degree is not necessarily required to become a Medical Coder, employers are more likely to hire you if you are professionally trained and certified.
There are six types of certifications for Medical Coding, available through two main organizations:
American Health Information Management (AHIMA)
• CCA – Certified Coding Associate
• CCS – Certified Coding Specialists
• CCS-P – Certified Coding Professional (physician based)
American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC)
• CPC – Certified Professional Coder
• CCPC-H – Certified Professional Coder (hospital-based)
• CPC-P – Certified Professional Coder (for insurance payers)
Learn more about how to get certified as a Medical Coder.
Learn more about Medical Billing and related careers.
