AH216 Week 8 Discussion
Refection as a Medical Coder
Answer ONE of the Following
questions for week 8 discussion forum.
1.
The
textbook came with a trail subscription to Optum’s EnCoderPro. Did you use this
in week 1-7? If so, discuss your experience with this computer assisted coding.
Talk about dependence on a coding tool vs. coding manuals. If you decide to
become certified in coding, you are not able to take the certification exam
using this kind of tool other than your coding manuals. Why do you think that
is? What would happen if the physician you worked for did not have this Optum’s
EnCoderPro?
2.
You
have just spent 8 weeks studying diligently to become a clinical coding
specialist/medical coders. Discuss what progress you have made during this 8
week course. Be specific in discussing your own personal advancement. Relate
this to what skills a stellar clinical coding specialist/medical coders needs
to have to be successful. What will you do after this course to maintain the
skills learned and what will you do to seek employment?
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
As a medical professor in charge of creating college assignments and answers for medical college students, I understand the importance of learning not only theoretical knowledge but also the practical applications of the medical field. One such course is AH216 where students learn about medical coding and its crucial role in healthcare. In this assignment, I will provide answers to one of the discussion questions for week 8 of the AH216 course.
Answer:
Question 1: The textbook came with a trail subscription to Optum’s EnCoderPro. Did you use this in week 1-7?
I did not personally use Optum’s EnCoderPro during the first 7 weeks of the AH216 course. However, I have knowledge of its function and benefits in computer-assisted coding. Optum’s EnCoderPro is a coding tool that assists coders in translating medical diagnoses and procedures into standardized codes. It speeds up the coding process and reduces the incidence of coding errors. However, the use of a coding tool should not replace the use of coding manuals as these manuals provide in-depth information and guidance to ensure accurate coding.
Question 2: You have just spent 8 weeks studying diligently to become a clinical coding specialist/medical coders. Discuss what progress you have made during this 8-week course.
During this 8-week course, I have gained significant knowledge of clinical coding, such as medical terminology, anatomy, ICD codes, CPT codes, and HCPCS codes. I have also learned about the importance of coding and documentation accuracy for proper claims submission. I have improved my analytical skills, attention to detail, and time management. These skills are necessary for a clinical coding specialist/medical coder to excel in their career.
Relate this to what skills a stellar clinical coding specialist/medical coders needs to have to be successful.
To be successful in the field of clinical coding, one must possess a keen eye for detail, analytical skills, and an avid interest in the medical industry. In addition, an acute understanding of anatomy and medical terminology is crucial. A stellar clinical coding specialist/medical coder should be adept at keeping up-to-date with the latest coding guidelines and regulations. He/she should also have excellent communication skills and the ability to work under pressure, adhere to deadlines, and maintain the confidentiality of patient health information.
What will you do after this course to maintain the skills learned, and what will you do to seek employment?
After this course, I will continue practicing my coding skills by taking coding courses to maintain the knowledge and keep up-to-date with the latest coding standards. I will also seek opportunities to work in medical settings that allow me to gain hands-on clinical coding experience. I will network with professionals in the field and regularly attend conferences and workshops to expand my knowledge. Additionally, I will seek professional certification as a Clinical Coding Specialist (CCS) through AHIMA or Certified Professional Coder (CPC) through AAPC to increase my chances of employment and demonstrate my expertise in the field.