Q&A Coding Specialties

[Lynn]

I know what E/M codes are, but I am confused when I see positions for E/M Coders. Don't most visits have an E/M code (except maybe surgery visit). Does this mean someone else has done the ICD-9 coding already and you are just focusing on the E/M code? Are there speciality coders who only use CPT codes and not ICD-9?

 

[Alicia Scott]

The reason you see positions for E/M coders is that this is what reimbursement is based on. Therefore E/M coders are specialists in getting the correct amount of reimbursement for the provider. A local hospital here is having all of their coders get the E/M certification so that they are assured their coders are on top of this. This also leads to auditing.

 

[Carolyn Heath]

I am working on E/M coding on Practicode. I guess that would be the same as Emergency Department coding. I have only done 2 charts and it is not easy. The first chart took me 19 minutes to complete and the second chart took me 14 minutes to complete, but there is room for improvement.

 

[Alicia Scott]

Make sure you are picking easy charts first. There is a setting. Agreed, they are difficult but they are real charts. You have to change your way of thinking from testing. A lot more fluff in real charts. That is why this is such an excellent opportunity. I have not gone in yet and coded but I expect to not do well at first.

You hit the nail on the nail on the head Carolyn. Always room for improvement. That is what they will be looking for.

 

[Nevergiveup]

I have not gone in to start coding yet. I am waiting until I am do studying for my CPC exam. I did log on and set up my password though. Looking forward to it.

 

[Alicia Scott]

I think that is a good idea. It will be a great way to study for a specific specialty later. I am looking forward to it. The thing is I have my eye on a few more credentials.

 

[Carolyn Heath]

I plan on going through every specialty on Practicode instead of focusing on one specialty. That way I know which specialty I would enjoy doing and I will be familiar with all specialties.

 

[Alicia Scott]

That is also a good idea Carolyn.

 

[Debi]

I wish I could afford to go to Practicode. Nothing seems to be working out since I got certified.

 

[Alicia Scott]

Love the picture you added Debi. Makes me feel more connected to you when I can see a face. I suspect your luck is about to change. It always does when things are looking down. When it does happen don't forget to let us know so we can share in the joy!!!!

 

[Debi]

Thanks Alicia, everyone her at CCO is so friendly and so helpful. I have been coding for a while, but I feel like there is so much to learn. Where I work we do Rural Health Billing, which is difficult in itself, to remember all of those rules also. I sure wish I could have taken your ICD 10 class. Maybe 2014 will be brighter! Excited for the webinar always like to pay attention to them. Take notes.

 

[Alicia Scott]

I believe we are going to do another ICD-10 live class.