Question

1. Spelling is important when searching for ICD codes. If a user was searching for an ICD-10 code for “gastroesophageal” or GERD (instead of gastro-esophageal”), what would they discover? What does this tell you about search protocol for ICD codes?

2. What steps would you recommend a facility take to ensure the accuracy of the coded data in their patient diagnoses and procedures?

Answer 1

1. If the user searching gastroesophagial instead of GERD he can not find the code (K21.9)

    because ICD-10-CM does not use body sites as main terms.so we need to search for

    the disease,sign,symptoms when coding for a patient condition and the user can only

    find bodysites as sub term.

2. Steps for a facility to ensure accuracy of coded data

          * For effective and accurate coding facility should instruct employees the following steps

             when coding patient diagnosis and procedures.

                          * Before start coding double confirm about what diagnosis and procedures are

                            to be coded.

                          * Every employee should follow guidelines when coding patient data.

                          * If any doubt occur about physicians notes about patient care clarify with the

                            physician before coding.

                          * Use most specific medical codes available for each diagnosis and procedure

                             to improve accuracy in coding and effective reimbursement.

                          * After coding patient health information recheck for avoiding errors and then

                            submit for reviewing purpose.