Spot on Coding Does not Require An Overly-Detailed Coding Policy

Spot on coding does not require an overly-detailed coding policy. ICD-9 Coding policy can certainly help keep your claims.

An ICD-9 coding policy can certainly help keep your claims flowing smoothly, but then you cannot just set it up and sit back. Read on and know how to establish a policy that'll remain current and help you duck the the auditors when they come calling.

The first element of a well-designed coding policy is to point out that you adhere to the ICD-9-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting. If you do not stay tuned to these standard rules you may land in trouble.

Secondly, establish your coding process, including who does the coding and how you make corrections.

Third, describe how your coding staff will stay tuned and maintain their coding competencies. Keeping pace with the changes can be especially important, whether to the official guidelines, payer requirements or the ensuing transition to ICD-10.

Document your auditing process, including the percentage of charts you will audit for accuracy and how often you will conduct those audits. Internal auditing can help ensure your dermatology coding is accurate before your mistakes are found in a costly audit from a ZPIC, RAC, or one of the other auditing entities.

Gauge your dermatology coders' accuracy. Paired with auditing, establishing an accuracy rate for your medical coders can help set the bar for your commitment to accurate coding. If you need your coders to maintain a 95 percent accuracy rate with their coding, include this information in your policy.

Keep policies up to date. Do not let your coding policy sit on the shelf and grow dusty. Try to check your policy periodically to ensure it's current.

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