As a medical coder, consistently improving and expanding your skills is crucial for career advancement. In this fast-paced field, new codes, regulations, and technologies are introduced all the time. Staying up to date on the latest developments will make you a more valuable asset to any healthcare organization. Here are some techniques to help you boost your coding expertise.
Learn New Coding Systems
One of the best ways to enhance your abilities is to become proficient in additional coding systems beyond what you currently use. For example, if you only code in ICD-10-CM, start learning CPT or HCPCS Level II coding. The more coding systems you know, the more marketable you become. Consider getting certified in new coding sets to prove your expanded competencies.
Master the Use of Coding Tools
Leverage coding tools to work smarter, not harder. Resources like encoders, groupers, and coding calculators help improve coding accuracy and productivity. For medical coders, an MRA coding calculator is especially useful for properly assigning codes for risk adjustment. Get comfortable using all the built-in features of your coding tools to get the most out of them.
Keep Up with Changing Guidelines
Coding guidelines and rules are updated annually, so staying current is a must. Read new code books thoroughly when they are released each year. Also regularly review newsletters, blogs, and reports from authoritative sources like the American Hospital Association and American Health Information Management Association for other coding guideline changes. Implement any new guidelines right away in your coding.
Expand Your Specialty Knowledge
While core coding principles remain the same across specialties, each medical specialty has its own nuances. Expand your knowledge by gaining experience coding records from different specialties like cardiology, orthopedics, and oncology. The more specialty exposure you have, the better coder you will become overall. Look for on-the-job opportunities or consider volunteering to code for new specialties.
Pursue Ongoing Education
Continuing education is mandatory for maintaining coding credentials, but don’t stop there. Go above and beyond minimum CE requirements to really boost your skills. Seek out coding courses on complex topics or niche issues you want to master. Attend local, regional, and national conferences to learn best practices. Self-study via online courses and webinars is also an easy way to build knowledge.
Focus on Detail and Accuracy
Precision and attention to detail are hallmarks of expert coding. Always double-check your work. Review guidelines frequently to confirm correct code assignments. Use coding quality tools to identify any patterns of inaccuracies in your coding and correct them. Aim for at least 98% coding accuracy. The more meticulous your coding, the better positioned you will be for advancement.
Adopt New Technologies
Coding is increasingly technology-driven, soget comfortable using new innovations. Artificial Intelligence coding assistance and Computer Assisted Coding are being adopted rapidly. Leverage these to improve coding efficiency while still building your skills. You may also have opportunities to get involved with implementing new technologies at your organization. Staying ahead of the tech curve makes you an invaluable asset.
Leveling up coding skills takes effort, but it pays off in terms of career mobility and job security. Use these tips to gain new expertise and demonstrate the value you bring to your healthcare organization. Consistently honing and expanding your coding knowledge is the best path to advancement.
