Comprehensive Medical Codes

From The Critics

Reviewer: Julie Hosley, RN, CMA(Carteret Community College)
Description: This comprehensive guide for medical coding appears to include all medical codes for 1999 and the HCPCS codes for 2000. This type of service requires annual updating.
Purpose: The author proposes to prepare students for medical office coding by offering a comprehensive coding resource in one large reference text. This is a welcome addition to student needs. The numerical lists appear to adequately cover all areas necessary for successful coding for reimbursement.
Audience: The book may be used by students preparing for a career in coding, for currently practicing office coders, or for insurance personnel who need a stronger background in coding information. The author directs a program for medical secretaries and is aware of the need for accessible coding resources.
Features: The history of coding, its purpose, and its importance in healthcare reimbursement are covered. Also included are in-depth coding guidelines, annotated revisions, and additions from previous editions for comparison. Icons alert the coder to issues such as the need for additional digits, nonspecific codes, and special coverage instructions. Official guidelines are combined from all three ICD-9-CM and HCPCS references in one book, with the DRGs list of complications and comorbidities. There are no noted deficiencies.
Assessment: With this annual update the author adequately covers the information needed to adhere to official rules and regulations necessary for appropriate coding in the medical office. It is more concise and easier to access than alternative sources. The pages are heavy enough to lie flat, so the book does not close on the unwary coder.

Julie Hosley

This comprehensive guide for medical coding appears to include all medical codes for 1999 and the HCPCS codes for 2000. This type of service requires annual updating. The author proposes to prepare students for medical office coding by offering a comprehensive coding resource in one large reference text. This is a welcome addition to student needs. The numerical lists appear to adequately cover all areas necessary for successful coding for reimbursement. The book may be used by students preparing for a career in coding, for currently practicing office coders, or for insurance personnel who need a stronger background in coding information. The author directs a program for medical secretaries and is aware of the need for accessible coding resources. The history of coding, its purpose, and its importance in healthcare reimbursement are covered. Also included are in-depth coding guidelines, annotated revisions, and additions from previous editions for comparison. Icons alert the coder to issues such as the need for additional digits, nonspecific codes, and special coverage instructions. Official guidelines are combined from all three ICD-9-CM and HCPCS references in one book, with the DRGs list of complications and comorbidities. There are no noted deficiencies. With this annual update the author adequately covers the information needed to adhere to official rules and regulations necessary for appropriate coding in the medical office. It is more concise and easier to access than alternative sources. The pages are heavy enough to lie flat, so the book does not close on the unwary coder.

4 Stars! from Doody