Medical billing coding is used to claim from insurance companies, and change frequently, usually on an annual basis. When billing codes become obsolete, insurance companies do not accept them, and as a consequence, claims are rejected.
There are a few methods which one can employ to stay in touch with changes and maintain a current medical billing code. The Code Books like CPT give a definition for each billing code, and list each billing code alphanumerically, making it easy to follow. Billing codes recorded in the CPT Code Books are revised with each issue on annual basis. Within each book is an appendix of changes, which show how a service has been modified from the current procedural terminology while maintain the same definition. By following the changes in the CPT Code Book every year, one is able to maintain an up to date database of billing code changes.
Another possible method to handle billing code changes involves using the International Classification of Diseases (ICD9). This system is used primarily as a means of reporting statistical data, and works by grouping the procedures of the related diseases. Similar to the CPT Code Books, ICD9 Books sort their diseases and diagnoses alphanumerically, and are updated annually.
Having to cross-reference billing codes with two referencing systems can be very time consuming, and there can be an element of human error involved. Using Medical Billing Software is a worthwhile alternative for referencing code books, which is likely to be updated frequently. Another advantage is that one does not require cross-referencing or the need to refer a range of billing code books when coding any medical procedure. Electronic software completely removes this problem, and more importantly, online referencing features are available that cannot be matched by using code reference books.
With such distinct advantages, one can see that medical software for code billing is the most effective way to handle changes in billing codes. Apart from being more efficient in filing claims with the billing codes, offices that make use of online billing and coding software will have an easier migration from outdated billing codes and procedures to current items. All this is possible since the software itself can handle most of the comparison and referencing, providing there are regular updates to its database.
Maintaining an up to date billing code database not only streamlines administrative work, but it ensures that the billing practices used and the standard of service one can provide to consumers is improved, and a high standard maintained.
