No matter if you are new to medical coding or have been a medical coder for years, the implementation of ICD-10 has created serious waves in the healthcare industry. On October 1, 2015, the U.S. healthcare industry finally transitioned from ICD-9 to ICD-10 after numerous lengthy delays. This new clinical cataloging system accommodates for the modern advancements in treatments and medical devices. As a result, there are now more classification options when compared to ICD-9. While this transition will enhance the operations of medical coding overall, it’s not without concern. The transition has left a need for those with ICD-10 training. Now, the large demand for those who have completed ICD-10 courses offers a leverage over outdated medical coders.
Why Do You Need ICD-10 Training?
While ICD-10 is not necessarily considered to be new, in fact, it was developed by WHO in 1990, it has only recently been in full implementation. When the full transition from ICD-9 to ICD-10 occurred, it left many healthcare professionals in a scramble because ICD-10 contains 125,000 new diagnosis and procedure codes. As a result, there must now be a higher level of coder expertise, specifically in areas of anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, and medical terminology. Now, there is an estimated 10 to 15 percent decline in coding productivity due to insufficient training.
To fill the gap, healthcare professionals are now aggressively seeking those who have ICD-10 training– whether they are new medical coders joining the field or careered coders who are keeping up with the changes. The healthcare-wide impact is causing all providers, health plans, and all payers to adopt this new system to improve analytics based on increased specificity and more accurate reimbursements.
Those who have completed ICD-10 courses now have the competitive edge. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the need for qualified medical coders is expected to increase by over 37,000, which is largely due to the need for medical coders with ICD-10 certifications. This new multi-disciplinary approach offers the perfect opportunity for those interested in joining the profession by keeping up with the current changes to medical coding.
Medical Coding Classes Online
For those who are interested in joining this high demand profession and those who need to keep up with the changes, Coding Clarified offers ICD-10 training. We provide medical coding classes online to learn the 10th revision to the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (IDC). Our AAPC accredited curriculum will teach you the necessary codes and permits that have replaced the previous ICD-9 system.
The 16-week curriculum will teach you everything you need to know to pass your certification exams to enter the field as a medical coder or to freshen your skills as a current coder. To obtain your certification, you will be required to take one of two certification exams. With nearly 50 percent of coders failing the exams on their first attempt, we will put you on the fast track to success with the thorough and comprehensive course.
Contact Coding Clarified today to learn more about ICD-10 training.