Updated and current-year ICD-9-CM, CPT and HCPCS coding books are essential resources for coding students. Because many codes change annually, coders should only use the most current coding books. This means it is necessary to purchase new coding books each year. There are a variety of publishers for ICD-9-CM books. However, CPT codes are owned and copyrighted by the American Medical Association, so publishers must have a specialized license to publish CPT coding books. Coding books can be found by visiting bookstores at colleges with health care programs, on the Internet or through associations like the American Health Information Management Association.
The Internet is an invaluable resource to medical coding students. Many free tutorials for medical terminology and coding updates can be found online. Professional organizations like the American Health Information Management Association and American Academy of Professional Coders provide a vast amount of online resources to members, including students, who often get a discounted membership. Governmental agencies such as the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services provide free HCPCS coding lists, articles, frequently asked questions and other coding-related information. Additionally, there are many sites that provide information on diseases, illnesses, procedures and treatments that can assist a coder in understanding clinician documentation during the coding process.
Encoders are software programs that lead the coder through a series of questions to assist them in assigning the appropriate medical codes. Most health care organizations have some type of encoding software. Although professional versions can be quite costly, there are similar applications available online for free or for trial periods that will serve the needs of medical coding students.
Medical dictionaries are an essential tool for coding professionals. Because it is impossible to remember all medical terms, coders often find themselves referencing medical dictionaries throughout the coding process. Medical dictionaries are available at bookstores and there are even free online versions. When purchasing a physical dictionary, be sure that it is a version that has colored photographs, pictures, charts and examples. This kind of additional information is extremely helpful when deciphering information in the medical record for coding.