According to a recent study by the Healthcare Information Management Systems Society, only 63% of ICD-10 coding is accurate. There were some common trends in this study as far as common mistakes people tend to make when coding. Incorrect coding costs both time and money, so take a look at these common coding errors made in ICD-10 to learn more about improving your practice’s efficiency.
1. Using outdated codes
This common error is easy to make, as many coders were very well familiarized to the ICD-9 coding. However, using an outdated code will lead to a denial of the claim. This will result in some costly consequences for your hospital or practice.
2. Coding the diagnosis code, but forgetting the procedure code
Not specifying the procedure code or diagnosis code will lead to a huge loss is reimbursements. Remember, you always want to include as much detail as possible when coding. Don’t stick to what you see on the surface; instead get into the specifics to maximize reimbursements.
3. Confusing similar numbers and letters
With all of the time you spend coding, a very common mistake made is confusing numbers and letters. For example, the code may call for the number 0, but the coder will enter the letter O or vice-versa. The same goes for the letter l and number 1. Pay attention to these little things to save having to go back and figure out where you went wrong.
4. Coders leave out laterality and specificity
ICD-10 has a huge focus on specificity, laterality, and disease process. Laterality specifies which side of the body is affected for a more accurate diagnosis. This is one of the major changes in ICD-10, which takes getting used to when learning.
With an understanding of the common medical coding errors, you can keep a watchful eye out for the common mistakes. As you are learning ICD-10, ensure you are being specific and accurate in order to maximize reimbursements and profitability. For help with the ICD-10 process, Health Information Services offers coding education as well as Revenue Cycle Management to ensure the long-term profitability of your practice. Contact us to learn more!