Ophthalmology and Optometry Coding Alert

Precise coding doesn't require an overly-detailed coding policy. An ICD-9 coding policy can help keep your claims flowing smoothly, but you can't just set it up and forget it. Here's how to establish a policy that will remain current and help you avoiheadaches when the auditors come calling.Step 1. The first building block of a well-designed coding policy is to indicate that you adhere to the ICD-9-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting, says Tricia A. Twombly, BSN, RN, HCS-D, CHCE, senior education consultant and director of coding with Foundation Management Services in Denton, Texas. Not staying up-to-date with these standard rules can lead to trouble.For details: The Official Guidelines are updated each year and usually are available shortly after the annual ICD-9 updates are made public. If you keep up on the rules in the official guidelines, you won't have to worry about being blindsided by any across-the-board ICD-9 [...]