Discover Medical Coding!

What Is Medical Coding?

Medical coding is a key step in the medical billing process. While the medical coder and medical biller may be the same person or work closely together to ensure that all invoices are sent and paid, medical coders are primarily responsible for coding claims.

They assign alphanumeric representations of diseases, injuries, and healthcare procedures in order to accurately describe diagnoses and procedures using one, uniform health care language.

For this reason, medical coders must have a thorough knowledge of medical terminology and code, including:

• Current Procedural Terminology (CPT)
• Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System HCPCS Level 1/ HCPCS Level II
• ICD-9-CM/ICD-10-CM  codes

When patients receive professional health care in a physician’s office, hospital outpatient facility or ambulatory surgical center (ASC), medical coders are responsible for coding and creating claims to be paid by an insurance company or the patient.

Certified Professional Coders (CPCs) are in high-demand because employers know that these individuals have the knowledge and skills needed to perform their job with the utmost proficiency. ^[1]

What Do Medical Coders Do?

Medical coders use medical codes to:

• Identify symptoms that must be evaluated
• Alert other healthcare professionals to life-threatening allergies
• Report services performed for reimbursement
• Help with administrative tasks like scheduling and staffing
• Plan for new services in underserved areas

Medical coders also educate patients and can serve as advocates for providers and patients concerning issues of coverage and medical needs.

Interested in learning more about medical coding programs and careers?

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Medical Coding Education & Training.

There are several health care degree levels and programs which could all lead to a rewarding medical coding career! Each degree program features its own combination of courses and overall emphasis, which could prepare you for slightly different career paths.

To choose a program that’s right for you, consider your background, interests and your future career plans.

Possible program paths you could take, include:

• Health Informatics
• Business Administration, Health Care Management
• Health Administration, Health Information Systems
• Medical Billing & Coding Diploma Programs

Interested in learning more about medical coding programs and careers?

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