Medical coding is a healthcare-business process to transform medical record documents such as laboratory and radiologic results and physician notes into universal alphanumeric codes that represents the diagnosis, treatment, procedure, service, or equipment. It has evolved from its initial use to determine the most recurrent causes of death in the 17th century. The International Classification of Diseases (ICD) — a compilation of the universe of diseases, disorders, injuries, and other related health conditions — was in its sixth edition when the World Health Organization assumed responsibility. WHO member states have formally adopted the latest update of this international standard: ICD-11, which officially came into effect in January 2022. In addition to ICD codes, Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) and Healthcare Common Procedure Coding Systems (HCPCS) code sets have helped transform medical coding. Medical coders translate each transaction of a patient and keep the medical records up to date with the diagnoses and procedures that they get.
The situation induced by COVID-19 has altered healthcare delivery by leaps and bounds, making efficient revenue cycle management a pressing necessity. The staffing requirements have increased manifold, bringing about more focus on the back-end services too. Medical coding has become an even more vital part of the system, requiring more experts within the healthcare continuum. So here are a few reasons why one should learn medical coding now:
Comprehensive training: The training curriculum is of short duration. Flexible courses are available, both online and offline. Hands-on classroom training and an internship can help one learn the workflow swiftly. Several courses offer certification, tutoring, and job placement support.
High demand: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics in the U.S, demand for medical coding professionals has climbed by 15%. Organisations and insurance companies that receive medical claims are in dire need of certified coders. With the greater adoption of digital health records, the demand for medical coding professionals will grow. Medical coders with experience and certification could gradually scale their career and possibly work as health information managers or coding supervisory heads.
Scale career: Obtaining certification and working as a medical coding specialist places one in the centre of the administrative side of the healthcare industry. This means that specialists can rise to lead bigger teams and head the coding departments, adding more value to this critical support function in the healthcare space.
The writer is the Director – Technical Training, Omega Healthcare Management Services
