Identification should include understand coding guidelines and regulations, as well as
- reviewing documentation to ensure compliance with national standards
- adhering to privacy standards as required by Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)
- translating patient information into alphanumeric medical code
- collecting, posting, and managing patient account payments
- submitting claims to insurance companies and reporting cases of fraud
- preparing and reviewing patient statements
- reviewing delinquent accounts and calling for collection purposes
- handling information about patient treatment, diagnosis, and related procedures to ensure proper coding
- knowing several different coding systems, including Level 1 Healthcare Common Procedure Coding Systems (HCPCS) and Level 2 HCPCS.
Process/Skill Questions:
- Why is accuracy important in the medical coding field?
- Why is knowledge of legal and regulatory issues important to a medical coder?
- Why is it important to follow and understand coding guidelines/regulations?