Medical coding and billing specialists must manage more than 185,000 different standardized ICD (international classification of diseases) along with current procedural terminology (CPT). To help reduce claim errors, more specialists turn to medical office software to streamline the process, handling every aspect of patient accounting and record keeping.

Software

Medical office software technology is generally customizable to allow medical coders to manage electronic claims, create patient statements, quickly fill-in such forms as Mental Health CMS-1500 and UB04. The technology can be accessed in-office or, a more economical route, by using Web-based software, such as MPMsoft, Antex HealthWare, LeonardoMD, Avisena and KIP Medical Office Software.

Considerations

Some medical offices go the old-fashion route, using ICD-9 (and now ICD-10), CPT and HIPAA reference books to manually fill-in patient data and billing claim information.

Skills

Medical coding and billing specialists must have a firm knowledge of medical terminology, ICD and CPT coding, the human anatomy and physiology. Other required training includes communication skills, office management, insurance coding and insurance law.

Tools

Tools needed to do the job include coding reference books (ICD-9-CM and/or ICD-10, CPT and HCPCS Level II code) to code for Medicaid, Medicare and private insurance reimbursements; and medical office coding software such as Encoder Pro Professional and RPMS (Resource and Patient Management System).

Demand

Demand for medical coding and billing specialists is on the rise. Often this job can be done from home. While accreditation is not mandatory, it does improve income and job availability. Certificates and degrees in medical coding and billing can be taken online or at colleges or trade schools.

Source:

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Medical Records and Health Information Technicians

The Work of a Coder: Survey Tells Us Who We Are

American Health Information Management Association

More Information:

American Academy of Professional Coders

AAPC Coding Edge: Work of a Coder Survey - Survey Tells Us Who We Are

How to Start Your Own Medical Billing Business