Subspecialty Coding Solutions
Coding requirements are constantly changing and becoming more complex and cumbersome. The importance of accurate coding to reflect severity of illness, quantify the level of care, and ensure proper reimbursement cannot be overlooked.
Although ICD-10 has greatly improved accuracy in reporting all aspects of patient care since last fall, it also meant that hospitals and providers had to learn over five times the number of codes —an increase from 13,000 ICD-9 codes to 69,000 ICD-10 codes. Due to a code freeze for several years and the continued need for new or revised codes, there will be in excess of 7,000 code changes for FY 2017. That can present a significant learning curve, even for experienced coders.
The experienced coding staff at OvationRCS are able to handle complex coding scenarios in all areas. Today, we are highlighting our coders that specialize in provider subspecialties such as cardiology, interventional radiology, urology, podiatry, emergency medicine, anesthesia, internal medicine and many more. Small practices, in particular, are unable to justify the costs associated with a full-time certified coder. As a result, some practices today are looking for a subspecialty coding solution.
Providers understand that accurate coding is essential, thus driving the need for subspecialty coders. Take cardiology for example. Cardiology coding includes aspects of interventional radiology, endovascular surgery, and a wide array of diagnostic testing, each of which has its own set of codes. Our certified coders understand the coding intricacies associated in this area and are well prepared for the thousands of cardiology coding updates set for October 1, 2016.
Currently, Medicare is not denying or auditing Part B claims solely on the specificity of the ICD-10-CM codes provided as long as the physician submits a diagnosis code from the appropriate family of codes. That grace period ends October 1 so well-trained and competent coders will be the cornerstone of a provider’s success. At OvationRCS, ongoing coder education strengthens our coders’ skill in their specific subspecialty that assures accuracy is maintained. In addition, each of our coders’ quality is monitored closely to assure coder proficiency within ICD-10 requirements.
To learn more about Ovation Revenue Cycle Services’ Comprehensive Coding Services, visit www.ovationrcs.com.
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