Debbie C
Networker
My understanding was; If a provider bills for services but chooses the incorrect ICD 9 code, a certified coder is the only person, other than the provider, that can legally change a code to the correct code based on documentation. Example: documentation states patient has DM Nephropathy, CKD Stage 3 due to DM 2 (controlled) and was coded 250.00. The correct codes should be 250.40 and 585.3. OR a provider billed 185. As a current condition but the patient really has history of prostate cancer and no longer under any type treatment, correct code would be V10.46.
Did I understand correctly that a certified coder can delete the incorrect codes and rebill the correct codes without physician notification? If yes, can you provide some type of Link and/or documentation that will support that so I can share it with my supervisor?
If I am incorrect in my understanding, could you please clarify? Thank you all so much for your time!!!