Medical coding is the process of assigning numeric or alphanumeric codes to medical diagnoses, procedures, and services provided to patients. These codes are used by healthcare providers, insurers, and other entities to communicate medical information for purposes of billing, reimbursement, and tracking of healthcare utilization and outcomes.
One commonly used system for medical coding is the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM) which is used to code diagnoses. Another system is the Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) system which is used to code medical procedures and services.
Medical coders play a critical role in the healthcare industry, as accurate coding is necessary for proper billing and reimbursement, as well as for tracking healthcare utilization and outcomes. It is important that coders have a thorough understanding of medical terminology, anatomy, and physiology, as well as knowledge of coding guidelines and regulations.