Medical billing coding
is used to claim from insurance companies, and change frequently, usually on an
annual basis. When billing codes become obsolete, insurance companies do not
accept them, and as a consequence, claims are rejected.
There are a few methods which one can employ to stay in touch with changes and
maintain a current medical billing code. The Code Books like CPT give a
definition for each billing code, and list each billing code alphanumerically,
making it easy to follow. Billing codes recorded in the CPT Code Books are
revised with each issue on annual basis. Within each book is an appendix of
changes, which show how a service has been modified from the current procedural
terminology while maintain the same definition. By following the changes in the
CPT Code Book every year, one is able to maintain an up to date database of
billing code changes.
Another possible method to handle billing code changes involves using the
International Classification of Diseases (ICD9). This system is used primarily
as a means of reporting statistical data, and works by grouping the procedures
of the related diseases. Similar to the CPT Code Books, ICD9 Books sort their
diseases and diagnoses alphanumerically, and are updated annually.
Having to cross-reference billing codes with two referencing systems can be
very time consuming, and there can be an element of human error involved. Using
Medical Billing Software is a worthwhile alternative for referencing code
books, which is likely to be updated frequently. Another advantage is that one
does not require cross-referencing or the need to refer a range of billing code
books when coding any medical procedure. Electronic software completely removes
this problem, and more importantly, online referencing features are available
that cannot be matched by using code reference books.
With such distinct advantages, one can see that medical software for code
billing is the most effective way to handle changes in billing codes. Apart
from being more efficient in filing claims with the billing codes, offices that
make use of online billing and coding software will have an easier migration
from outdated billing codes and procedures to current items. All this is
possible since the software itself can handle most of the comparison and
referencing, providing there are regular updates to its database.
Maintaining an up to date billing code database not only streamlines
administrative work, but it ensures that the billing practices used and the
standard of service one can provide to consumers is improved, and a high
standard maintained.
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