Medical coding: why do we code?

Whenever someone says the word ‘medicine’, what is the first thing that comes to mind? Doctors, nurses, hospitals, medications, injections, etc. the usual. But what we fail to realize is that medicine is so much more than hospitals and doctors. The health care system provides a plethora of career opportunities. What does a person do if they like coding and like the field of medicine? Well, you have one option, medical coding. One might wonder what medical coding is? You’re looking in the right place.

What is medical coding?

Medical coding is the conversion of healthcare diagnosis, procedures, medical services and equipment into universal medical alphanumeric codes. In simple words, it refers to the process of translating essential medical information into the simple code for documentation purposes of medical records and accurate medical billing. There are a few dissimilar types of medical codes that are used in the health care system today, due to which the scope of Medical Coding is going high around the world. Every one of them provides uniform documentation between medical facilities. Having a standard system allows for an easier transfer of medical records and more efficient research and analysis to track health trends.

When was medical coding invented?

Medical coding can be dated back as far as the 17th century England! But it has expeditiously evolved over the past few decades.

What is a medical coder?

Medical coders are people who are responsible for translating physicians’ reports into serviceable medical codes. These professionals work behind the scenes, ensuring all apposite information is coded appropriately to ensure consistency and accuracy. After a medical provider examines or treats a patient, the insurance company needs to understand the exact procedure followed to process the bill. The common language is vague to give the insurance company the accurate details it needs; here a specific set of codes has been established to define medical procedures. It’s the role of the medical coder to transpire this information in a way that is useful and efficient. Now you know what medical coding is and who is a medical coder; the next question might arise "what are some important skills required for medical coding?" To succeed in this field a medical coder not only requires technical skills but also transferable skills. Right now, the most important skills sought out by employers are:

Top technical skills:

● ICD-10
● Customer billing
● Health information technology
● CPT coding
● Inpatient Coding
● Outpatient Coding
● ICD-9
● Anatomy
● HCPCS coding
● Clinical documentation

Top transferable skills:

● Communication
● Research
● Computer literacy
● Microsoft Office®
● Attention to detail
● Collaboration
● Organization
● Analytical skills
● Problem-solving
● Time management

How do you become a medical coder?

To become a medical coder, one requires specialized training and certification. Medical coding isn’t easy but it is one of the most valued professions in the healthcare world. First you need to enroll in a medical coding program. After you graduate you need to obtain your medical coding certification.

What are a few qualities that successful medical coders share?

Everyone is different. Their personalities, things they admire, etc. but one trait every successful medical coder should have is an eye for detail. It means they should have a deep concentration in their work because if they make even one minuscule mistake in the code it could lead to major issues. Their work might be repetitive but it is extremely important.

Are you considering becoming a medical coder?

I hope this extract gave you a basic understanding of medical coding, what a medical coder is and their role in the healthcare industry. Now, after going through the above content you can predict the scope of medical coding in India to be on the sky in the future. If you are looking for Medical Coding Course in Pune then you are at the one-stop solution with name Learn Well Technocraft. The best institute in Pune for Medical Coding and other professional courses. Hopefully, this brief helped you understand medical coding better. Enroll medical coding course in Pune.