Outsourcing medical coding and billing requirements is definitely beneficial in terms of reduced workload, better performance and improved revenue. However, the task of hiring a medical coding company should be taken very seriously. A reliable company should be chosen that can offer the services of certified coders and billers. This is important from the point of view of getting maximum reimbursement because only clean claims that are devoid of errors can pass the scrutiny of payers.
Prior to looking for a service provider, it is important to understand your actual requirements. The medical coding firm you hire should be able to handle the billing processes for your specialty. Ask the right questions to the staff to get to know about their experience, knowledge and also to evaluate their skills. Given below are some questions that can be asked for a better understanding of the company’s medical coding services:
- Are you aware about the applicable regulations?
- Do you update yourself on code changes and policy changes?
- Which diagnoses and procedures have you coded the most?
- How many cases do you code every day?
- What is the accuracy percentage of coding?
- Are you certified?
To find a good company, various factors should be taken into consideration. These include:
- Accuracy
The coding of medical diagnoses and procedures should be done with great accuracy. This is the only way to make sure that maximum reimbursement is obtained. You can check the statistics of the company and learn about the accuracy percentage.
- Security
Security and confidentiality of sensitive patient information is of great importance. Make it a point to thoroughly understand what security measures the company has in place.
- Round-the-clock accessibility to data
Apart from accuracy and security of data, a reliable company would allow round-the-clock access to data.
- Experience
Always, the experience of the medical coding company should be considered. A company that has many years of experience in the field should be chosen. If it is experienced enough, it would stick to the standards that the federal government and insurance companies require.
- Reliability
It should always be ensured that the company enjoys a good reputation. With a professional firm, there is consistency of services, which in turn leads to increase in your revenue.
- Technological aspects
It is important to use innovative and state-of-the-art infrastructure, equipment and technology. Always check whether the firm utilizes the latest technology. The major services that the company offers should be evaluated.
Comprehensive solutions are provided by many companies that cover:
- CPT medical coding
- Emergency room e-code evaluation
- Medical coding audits
- DRG/ICD-9-CM coding validations
- Hospital or in-patient coding
The right medical coding company is your ideal partner when it comes to organizing your medical billing process and submitting claims in a timely manner. Therefore, the time spent searching for a reliable provider is well utilized. You need to partner with an outsourcing firm that has your best interests in view and provides customized services.
Outsource Strategies International (OSI) is committed to providing fast and efficient medical coding services, assuring accuracy and client satisfaction. Our medical coding company provides services to a range of healthcare clients including medical groups, clinics, and independent physicians in the US.
