Online Resources First Read The Following Article Attached

Online Resourcesfirst Read The Following Article Attached Belowamerica

Online resources first read the following article attached below American Health Information Management Association. "Internet Resources for Accurate Coding and Reimbursement Practices (Updated)." Journal of AHIMA (Updated March 2010) Choose one of the resources listed in the article and view the website. Provide a summary of the resource. Answer the following questions, providing examples with your answers: Why do you think that having Internet access and resources are important for a coder? Think about: Medical Terminology Drug References Surgical Procedures Coding Changes Networking What do you think was done before the Internet was created? APA format.

Paper For Above instruction

The advent of the internet has revolutionized numerous professional fields, particularly health information management. In the context of medical coding and billing, online resources have become indispensable tools that enhance accuracy, efficiency, and up-to-date knowledge. The article by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) emphasizes various internet-based resources crucial for accurate coding and reimbursement practices. For this paper, I selected the website of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), which is prominently highlighted for its comprehensive coding and billing resources.

The CMS website is an extensive platform providing vital tools such as the HCPCS (Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System) and ICD (International Classification of Diseases) coding resources, billing guidelines, and updates on policy changes. It offers free access to coding manuals, reimbursement details, and updates on legislative changes affecting healthcare billing. The site also hosts training modules, webinars, and FAQs that aid coders in maintaining accuracy in their work. The resource is particularly valuable because it ensures coders have direct access to the most current coding standards set by governmental agencies, thereby reducing errors and facilitating compliance.

Having internet access and online resources are integral for medical coders for several reasons. Firstly, medical terminology, pharmaceutical references, and surgical procedures are continuously evolving fields, often with frequent updates. Online resources provide real-time access to these updates, enabling coders to stay informed about the latest developments. For example, pharmaceutical drug references like the U.S. National Library of Medicine’s DailyMed provide detailed, up-to-date information about drug indications, contraindications, and interactions, which are crucial when coding medication-related encounters. Access to current drug references ensures accuracy in medication coding, which directly impacts reimbursement and patient safety.

Secondly, the dynamic nature of coding changes imposes a need for timely updates. Coding systems such as ICD-10-CM and CPT undergo periodic revisions, often published in coding manuals but also disseminated through online portals like the American Medical Association’s website. These platforms provide immediate access to new codes, revised guidelines, and coding conventions. This reduces delays in implementing updates and enhances compliance with current standards. For instance, during the transition from ICD-9 to ICD-10, online resources enabled coders to adapt swiftly and accurately, avoiding costly coding errors.

Thirdly, surgical procedures and treatment techniques continually advance. Online surgical procedure databases allow coders to review detailed descriptions and coding guidelines for new procedures. For example, the American College of Surgeons’ website offers comprehensive resources that assist coders in understanding complex procedures, ensuring accurate code assignment that reflects current practices.

Networking is another critical component facilitated by internet resources. Online forums, professional networks, and webinars enable coders to exchange knowledge, resolve ambiguities, and stay connected with latest industry trends. These networks can also provide peer support and collaboration opportunities, which are invaluable when dealing with complex or uncommon coding situations. Before the internet’s proliferation, coders relied on printed manuals, face-to-face training, or correspondence courses, which delayed access to updates and limited interaction. The internet has democratized access to ongoing education and professional engagement, significantly improving accuracy and efficiency.

Before the internet, medical coders primarily depended on printed coding manuals, textbooks, and in-person training sessions. Manuals such as the ICD Coding Manual, CPT books, and payer-specific guidelines were essential but static resources that became outdated quickly. Correspondence courses, seminars, or continuing education programs provided updates but involved delays and additional costs. These traditional methods often limited the speed and scope at which coders could access the latest information, leading to potential discrepancies and errors in coding practices.

In conclusion, online resources have transformed the landscape of medical coding, providing instantaneous access to vital information such as coding updates, drug references, surgical procedures, and networking opportunities. They have significantly enhanced the accuracy and efficiency of coding practices, which directly impacts reimbursement processes and healthcare outcomes. As healthcare continues to evolve rapidly, reliance on credible internet resources will remain essential for professional development and maintaining excellence in medical coding.

References

American Health Information Management Association. (2010). Internet Resources for Accurate Coding and Reimbursement Practices. Journal of AHIMA.

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. (n.d.). CMS Resources for Healthcare Providers. https://www.cms.gov

American Medical Association. (2023). CPT® Professional Edition. AMA Press.

U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2023). DailyMed: Drug Labeling Information. https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov

World Health Organization. (2019). ICD-10 Classification of Diseases. WHO Press.

American College of Surgeons. (2022). Surgical Procedures Coding Resources. https://www.facs.org

Healthcare Business & Tech. (2022). The Role of Digital Networks in Medical Coding. Healthcare IT News.

Stellefson, M., & Chaney, B. (2010). Advances in health-related social media. American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, 4(3), 200–205.

Hersh, W. R., et al. (2015). Information technology in health care: An overview. Journal of the American Medical Informatics Association, 22(1), 147-152.

Rosenfeld, D. (2017). The evolution of medical coding: Past, present, and future. Coding Perspectives, 23(4), 45-50.