Medical Coding is an important part of our healthcare system today. In fact, whenever you visit a doctor, a medical coder reviews and codes your medical report.
In addition, the codes used form part of a universal language used in healthcare. Therefore, a range of professionals can use coded medical reports.
It is the role of a medical coder to assign the codes and create the final document. As such, medical coders must be knowledgeable of both healthcare terminology and the coding system.
To help you understand the processes used in Medical Coding check out my guide below!
What is Medical Coding?
Medical Coding is done for a number of reasons. Firstly, hospitals are not the only people that use Medical Coding. In fact, the government and insurance companies also rely on Medical Coding. As such, coded documents can be used for:
Billing
Research
Funding
Healthcare planning
Retrieving records
Producing data for hospitals and government departments
Medical Coding is the process of assigning codes to a medical report. In fact, the coded document provides a summary of the medical report. Therefore, Medical Coding can be quite a detailed task. As such, Medical Coding reports include:
Diagnosis
Treatments
Any changes
Therefore, to work as a medical coder, you need a good understanding of medical terminology. In addition, you need a good understanding of the coding system you’re using.
In addition, depending on who you are working for, and what country you are in, the codes may vary.
How does Medical Coding work?
Most reports are done with International Classification of Diseases (ICD) coding. However, there are variations of this for different countries.
Firstly, the medical coder analyses the report. That way, they can advise the doctor of any issues. Secondly, they work through the report assigning the related codes. See below for the full process:
Medical Coding vs Medical Transcription
To be successful at Medical Coding or Medical Transcription, there is a wide range of skills and knowledge required:
Good problem-solving skills
Knowledge of drugs and treatments
Research skills
Medical terminology knowledge
Good attention to detail
Medical coders will also require:
- Knowledge of coding standards
- Excellent communication skills to liaise with doctors
Career opportunities in Medical Coding
Salary and wage for Medical Coding
The salary for Medical Coding often depends on experience. Therefore, an entry-level coder will earn less than an advanced coder.
Expected salary for Medical Coding
How you can get started as a Medical Coder
If you’re looking for a career in Medical Coding, you need an advanced knowledge of medical terminology. Therefore, this career path is popular for Medical Transcriptionists wanting to upskill. In addition, the role of a Medical Transcriptionist and Coder in preparing and finalising reports can be quite similar.
Both of these roles require you to have an excellent knowledge of healthcare. Furthermore, you require a great attention to detail. As such, the Certificate of Medical Transcription is a comprehensive program that assists you in beginning a rewarding career in healthcare. In addition, it can also provide valuable insight into Medical Coding. That way, you can make sure that Medical Coding is the right career for you!
Therefore, if you would like more information on how to begin a rewarding career in Medical Transcription and Medical Coding, please request a course information pack below!
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