Learn How to Code
Today I am going to share some important information for getting FREE CEUs for AAPC and AHIMA certified medical coders. Yes, CEUs are very important at the end of the year to retain your certification from AAPC and AHIMA. If you do not submit CEUs on time, you certification can be cancelled or discontinued. So … Read more
Historically, many patients have only sought medical attention when experiencing illness. However, modern healthcare initiatives, particularly under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), emphasize preventive care and early detection services as essential strategies for improving population health and reducing long-term healthcare costs. These services are covered without patient cost-sharing (e.g., copayments or deductibles) when properly documented … Read more
CMS Proposes Significant ICD-10-CM Code Updates in the FY 2026 IPPS Proposed Rule On April 11, 2024, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Hospital Inpatient Prospective Payment System (IPPS) proposed rule, which includes substantial revisions to the ICD-10-CM code set. The proposal outlines the following changes: 487 … Read more
Understanding the appropriate use of surgical modifiers is essential for accurate coding and compliance. Recent audits by the Office of Inspector General (OIG) have revealed significant billing inaccuracies related to co-surgeon and assistant-at-surgery procedures, underscoring the need for careful review and application of relevant guidelines. OIG Findings on Modifier Usage In a November 2022 report, … Read more
Medical coders play a vital role in ensuring accurate and compliant documentation of services rendered by healthcare providers. One such code, CPT 99024, is integral in reporting post-operative evaluation and management (E/M) services included in the global surgical package, especially for providers reimbursed through Medicare or Medicaid. Background and Importance In a 2012 report, the … Read more
Assigning accurate and complete diagnosis codes for diagnostic radiology studies—such as X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, ultrasounds, and mammograms—can present a unique challenge, even for experienced medical coders. Unlike other clinical services, diagnostic radiology reports are based on interpretations by radiologists who typically do not have direct patient interaction. Instead, they rely on information provided by … Read more
Accurate debridement documentation is crucial for proper medical coding and reimbursement, yet it is often challenging. The documentation must be sufficiently detailed to paint a clear picture of the procedure performed. However, the procedure title and description in the operative note often do not align, making it difficult to capture the appropriate coding information. Key … Read more
Get ready, medical coders! The April 1, 2025, ICD-10-PCS and MS-DRG grouper updates are packed with changes, and you won’t want to miss out! The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has released a ton of new codes, deletions, and updates across multiple sections of the ICD-10-PCS classification system. This is your guide to … Read more
Medical Decision-Making (MDM) can be a complex and confusing process for medical coders. However, by understanding key concepts and following a simplified system, coders can accurately determine the appropriate MDM level for a given case. This article breaks down MDM and its components, providing a clear guide to help coders make more informed decisions. What … Read more
As a medical coder, knowing when and how to use modifiers is crucial to ensuring you’re getting paid properly for services provided. One of the most powerful tools at your disposal, modifiers help you communicate that certain procedures, even within a global surgery period, are distinct and deserve separate payment. This is your secret weapon … Read more
As a medical coder, mastering the language of orthopedics is essential for ensuring your coding is on point—especially when it comes to procedures like arthroplasty and joint replacement. While these terms are often used interchangeably, understanding their subtleties can make a huge difference in accurately translating clinical language into the precise codes used in medical … Read more