In order to report accurate evaluation and management codes, coders need accurate, complete documentation. Coders can play a critical role in ensuring proper documentation. Lori-Lynne A. Webb, CPC, CCS-P, CCP, CHDA, COBGC, looks at methods coders can use to promote better documentation.
Coding for acute and chronic pain will not change greatly in ICD-10-CM, though coders will have some new options at their disposal. Shelley C. Safian, PhD, CCS-P, CPC-H, CPC-I , discusses some common pain diagnoses and how they will translate from ICD-9-CM.
The implementation of ICD-10-CM will bring more specificity to coding, which will mean more data for facilities. Michael Gallagher, MD, MBA, MPH, and Andrea Clark, RHIA, CCS, CPC-H, look at how to handle that data and its benefits for providers and patients.
Coding may not be brain surgery, but understanding brain anatomy can greatly help coders when reporting head injuries or disorders. Shelley C. Safian, PhD, CCS-P, CPC-H, CPC-I, reviews some major components of brain anatomy and the impact of ICD-10-CM on coding for some common diagnoses.
When it comes to ICD-10-CM/PCS, coders may be the hardest and most directly hit employees. Laura A. Shaffer, PhD, and Monica Lenahan, CCS, explain how hospitals may be lagging behind in terms of actually managing the change for these individuals.
One of the bigger challenges with the birth of the new ICD-10-CM coding system is the assignment of the letter O as the leading indicator for OB/GYN codes. Lori-Lynne A. Webb, CPC, CCS-P, CCP, CHDA, COBGC, ICD-10-CM/PCS AHIMA-accredited trainer, delivers a comparative look at coding for OB/GYN coding in ICD-9-CM and ICD-10-CM.
In January 2013, CMS introduced 42 therapy functional reporting G codes (nonpayable), but instituted a six-month trial period. That grace period ended July 1. Denise Williams, RN, CPC-H, Dave Fee, MBA, and Debbie Mackaman, RHIA, CHCO, explain how to report these G codes and their related functional modifiers.
Coders append modifiers to claims every day, but use some modifiers less frequently than others. Lori- Lynne A. Webb, CPC, CCS-P, CCP, CHDA, COBGC, discusses the proper use of two less common modifiers, modifiers -62 and -66.
The upcoming transition to ICD-10 is a great opportunity to build relationships with physicians. Kathy DeVault, RHIA, CCS, CCS-P, Mark N. Dominesey, MBA, RN, CCDS, CDIP, HIT Pro-CP, and Ann Barta, MSA, RHIA, reveal how coders and clinicians can educate each other to make the ICD-10 transition smoother.
Outpatient providers are beginning to see more and more medical necessity audits, especially in the ED and for evaluation and management (E/M) levels. Caral Edelberg, CPC, CPMA, CAC, CCS-P, CHC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer, and Joanne M. Becker, RHIT, CCS, CCSP, CPC, CPC-I, AHIMA approved ICD-10-CM/PCS trainer, review the guidelines for ED E/M services and highlight common audit risk areas.
