Medical code systems are the universal language of modern healthcare. These systems, such as ICD-11, ICD-10, CPT and HCPCS, are used to record a patient’s complete medical history. People in medical billing and coding jobs update and maintain these important records. Read on to find out more about medical code systems and the medical billing and coding occupation.
The Purpose of Medical Codes
In healthcare, maintaining accurate and detailed records is critical. Errors can result in misdiagnosis of a condition, or a patient receiving the wrong treatment or medication. The stakes are literally life and death.
To ensure accuracy, medical code systems were developed. These systems allow treatments, diagnoses, medications, and every other aspect of care a patient receives to be documented in a standardized way. This ensures that records can be understood even if they’re transferred from one medical facility, such as in the case of a referral or a patient changing providers. Increasingly, medical records are stored electronically so that they can be more easily transmitted and are less likely to be lost.
Besides ensuring accuracy in patient care, standardized medical code systems are also a big help to medical researchers, since they make it easier to analyze data and develop statistical models. These codes are also used for the efficient and correct processing of insurance claims and bills.
Each time a patient visits a doctor for a checkup, has a medication or medical device prescribed for them, or has some other health event occur, the appropriate codes are added to their records. The modern healthcare system has openings for trained professionals whose job duties consist entirely of updating and processing medical records using standardized codes.
Flexible and Skilled Positions Medical Billing and Coding Jobs
Medical coding jobs are available in a variety of organizations, from doctor’s offices and public clinics, to laboratories, hospitals, and medical equipment supply companies. With a focus on data quality, your accuracy and ability to translate medical notes to clear coding is essential. For many medical coding jobs, work can be performed remotely on your own schedule.
From entry level coding roles to supervisory positions, data entry to quality control, employment in this area is available in most medical organizations. There are even flexible positions to help handle the demand for these activities on an as-needed or PRN basis.
With the healthcare field expected to continue growing significantly, the level of demand for skilled professionals to fill medical billing and coding positions is likely to remain high.
Prepare for a Job in Healthcare with HCC
Whether you’re looking for a growth job in a medical organization, or a skilled way to supplement your income, medical coding jobs provide flexible opportunities. Enroll in HCC’s medical billing and coding program and get the skills to enter the growing healthcare field!