Synopsis
This textbook is an overview of the CPT (Current Procedural Terminology) codebook, which provides the numeric system used for medical services. Developed in 1966, it is the standardized way to report services in the medical industry and claims processing. The book introduces categories and guidelines, and describes codes used for evaluation and management services, surgery and specific procedures, anesthesia, radiology, pathology and laboratory, medicine, modifiers, and correct coding initiatives. The new edition has more exercises, expanded chapters and index, and the book includes an index of codes. It is aimed at those with some background in CPT nomenclature and for studying for the CPC and CCS-P tests. Annotation ©2005 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR
Doody Review Services
Reviewer:Renee Rowell, MS, RHIA, CC, MS, RHIA, CCS(Private Practice)
Description:Principles of CPT Coding again stays true to its nature. This edition contains pertinent information, guidance, and clarification that coding professionals require in staying current in their skills. Whether it be medical, surgical, or diagnostic services, this book provides both the clinical and administrative focus necessary for accurate communication between providers, payers, and accreditation organizations.
Purpose:The purpose is to be a resource for learning that involves the nomenclature of the medical profession. These objectives are essential in today's health information management field, not only for continuity of care but also for quality improvement and reimbursement auditing for everyone in the healthcare system.
Audience:The book is written for all professionals whether they are students, recent graduates, or tenured professionals. Audiences in this discipline will find this resource of clinically recognized services to be an essential workplace tool. According to Michael Beebe, Director CPT Editorial and Information Services, this is more than a textbook, it is an invitation to participate in the future of the CPT code set. In today's constantly evolving world of healthcare, it is imperative that those involved in using CPT keep abreast with the ever-changing technology and directives to provide accuracy at all levels.
Features:This publication addresses services that are provided by medical professionals. A majority of the attention is given to surgical procedures involving the major body systems. However, the publication also deals with evaluation and management services, anesthesia issues, and diagnostic radiology. There is also a strong chapter on the use of two-digit modifiers, helping to clarify if a procedure or service has been reduced or eliminated at the physician's discretion. Another nice resource is the chapter on the National Correct Coding Initiative (NCCI). Focus is placed on annual updates pertaining to claims processing of Medicare Part B. As an example, the book outlines mutually exclusive codes and which are acceptable and which are not. Also of note is the Surgical Pathology Reference Table, which is just one of many illustrations that can serve as a quick guide. Another useful feature is that AMA has developed a Web page that purchasers of this book can access to test their knowledge.
Assessment:I would recommend this book to all healthcare professionals. Having taught professionally in the HIM field as well as having used the information in a corporate setting, I can attest that this resource provides clear, concise, and well structured information. The book achieves noteworthy success again with this fourth edition and is one that any healthcare library should not be without.