One of the most difficult parts of revenue cycle management is the claims denial and it is an observation that CPT codes are the most common reason for denials. With thousands of ICD-10 codes, it has become troublesome for coders to remember all the codes accurately which results in few errors that ultimately may lead to claim denials. Claims denials reduce the income of the healthcare facility which warns for the reduction of errors by people in medical coding jobs. Given here is a list of strategies that can be followed to avoid common coding errors.
- Use the latest codes: The CPT codes are updated annually by the American Medical Association with numerous changes and revisions in code along with modifications in coding guidelines. There are changes happening in the HCPCS codes and CMS coding guidelines also regularly. One who wants to reach the heights in medical coding jobs has to update himself/herself with all the changes and modifications in all aspects and do coding with the latest and appropriate codes; else there are more chances of rejections and denial which is not wanted by any healthcare facility.
- Code to the highest level:It is necessary that physicians provide all the details pertaining to a procedure with detailed clinical documentation so as to support the appropriate selection of codes. ICD-10 codes can have a minimum of three to the maximum of seven characters to add more specific details regarding the diagnosis or treatment. Medical coders must do the coding to the highest level of specificity where applicable or else, it may result in denials of claims.
- Use the entire chart:Medical coders have to go through the entire chart to comprehend the diagnostic information properly. There may be cases where the header may indicate something and later the course of action may change direction with the progress a physician makes in gathering information about the patient at the time of diagnosis and treatment.
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