Abstract

Take your first step toward a successful career in medical coding with comprehensive coverage from the most trusted source in the field! Step-by-Step Medical Coding, 2013 Edition is the practical, easy-to-use resource that shows you exactly how to code using all of today's coding systems. In-depth, step-by-step explanations of essential coding concepts are followed by practice exercises to reinforce your understanding. In addition to coverage of reimbursement, ICD-9-CM, CPT, HCPCS, and inpatient coding, the 2013 edition offers complete coverage of the ICD-10-CM diagnosis coding system in preparation for the eventual transition. No other text on the market so thoroughly prepares you for all coding sets in one source!

• Dual coding in Units 4 and 5 (where both ICD-10 and ICD-9 answers are provided for every exercise, chapter review, and workbook question) ensures you can code using the systems of both today and tomorrow.
• Complete coverage of the new ICD-10 code set in Unit 2 prepares you for the eventual transition from ICD-9 to ICD-10.
• Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting boxes in Units 2, 3, and 5 present the official outpatient and inpatient guidelines alongside text discussions.
• Concrete "real-life" coding examples help you apply important coding principles and practices to actual scenarios from the field.
• Over 500 total illustrations of medical procedures or conditions help you understand the services being coded.
• Four coding question variations develop your coding ability and critical thinking skills:

• One answer blank for coding questions that require a one-code answer
• Multiple answer blanks for coding questions that require a multiple-code answer
• Identifiers next to the answer blank(s) to guide you through the most difficult coding scenarios
• Answer blanks with a preceding symbol (3 interlocking circles) indicates that the user must decide the number of codes necessary to correctly answer the question
• In-text exercises, Quick Checks, and Toolbox features reinforce coding rules and concepts, emphasize key information, and test your retention and understanding.
• From the Trenches, Coding Shots, Stop!, Caution!, Check This Out!, and CMS Rules boxes offer valuable, up-to-date tips and advice for working in today’s medical coding field.
• Coder’s Index makes it easy to instantly locate specific codes.
• Practice activities on the companion Evolve website reinforce key concepts from the text.

• Updated content presents the latest coding information so you can practice with the most current information available.