How to Test ICD9 Codes

The skill of a great medical coder is figuring out the confusing and sometimes ambiguous world of the ICD-9 and HCP coding required to bill medical services to insurance programs. Making medical services and supplies match the volumes of billing codes can be difficult. Even the cleverest billing coder wonders whether or not he has it right. Verifying your codes before submitting your billing can save you and the insurer a lot of hassle.

Things You'll Need

  • ICD-9 coding software or a book
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Instructions

    • 1

      Check the ICD-9 code that your billing software selects against your ICD-9 code book, assuming you use a medical billing program in your work. Make sure they match and that the description appears accurate to the service rendered. If you don't have an ICD-9 code book, you can purchase one from a bookstore or online bookseller.

    • 2

      Use an online ICD-9 reference tool to double-check both of these. Most online ICD-9 listings keep their information updated. (See Resources)

    • 3

      Contact the physician or nurse who wrote the chart from which you're billing to make sure the descriptions match the codes you're selecting if you have any doubt about their validity. Many services and treatments can be similar in nature and name, so it's important to know you're billing accurately.

    • 4

      Call the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services to see whether your coding matches its records. CMS has support professionals available to answer billing questions. Even if your patient isn't a Medicare subscriber, CMS sets the standards for medical billing, including private sector practices. (See Resources)

    • 5

      Contact the insurance provider you're billing if you're unsure of the ICD-9 code you're selecting. In the end, the bill recipient is the one you need to please. Going straight to the source and getting the provider's agreement can be the best way to make sure the job gets done right the first time.

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