Medical coders play a vital part in the medical billing process. Without them, insurance companies would not exist and doctors would not get reimbursed for their services.

Here's one scenario:

- A patient visits a doctor's office
- The doctor examines the patient
- The doctor schedules a test to make a proper diagnosis
- Based on the results of the test or examination, the doctor schedules a procedure
- There is a follow-up visit to check on the patient's progress
- The diagnosis requires additional follow ups or visits to monitor patient's progress

All of the time spent with the patient, including performing tests, making a diagnosis and scheduling procedures, needs to be accounted for. That is where special medical codes come in. These codes help medical offices and insurance companies record and track all medical activity.

By assigning the proper codes, doctors can get reimbursed for their services. If an incorrect code is assigned to a test, diagnosis, or procedure, then it disrupts the payment process and delays payment from the insurance company.

Medical coding is essential to the health care industry. Medical coders act as important liaisons between doctors and insurance companies. Without their services, it would be difficult to stay on top of medical billing and get doctors adequately paid. As a result, each medical facility has its own coders to keep the billing process moving forward.

Labels: Medical Coder

Posted by Heather Brunson @ 2:47 PM • 0 comments