Know The Competency Levels Of A Clinical Coder-

By Author: Julia Rose
Total Articles: 89
Comment this article

Clinical coding is the study of clinical statements and assigning codes to them for reimbursement. The data generated by clinical coders, also referred to as diagnostic coders or medical coders, are key components of modern medical informatics.


Most clinical coders are engaged in coding inpatient and daypatient episodes of care, though mortality events, population health studies among others can also be coded. Some hospitals segregate their medical notes into specialties such as orthopedic, gastroenterology, cardiology, etc.


Competency levels of clinical coder:


The entry-level coder is one who is just through with an introductory training course in clinical classification or is just in the process of doing so. However as the coder is inexperienced at this stage, an experienced coder checks each and every work done by her.

The Intermediate level coder is someone who ...
... can code many cases independently. At this stage, coders are able to code cases even with incomplete information and they possess a sound knowledge of anatomy, physiology and other disease processes.

The advanced level coder can code the most complex of cases without much difficulty. Usually advanced coders are credentialed. What's more, at this stage, the coder is in a position to train entry-level trainers.

Lastly, Nosologists are seen as experts who can not only code but design and deliver education, assist in the development of classification and the rules for using it. They are mostly expert in more than one classification.


So depending on the level of expertise you have, you can seek out a number of employment opportunities be it at healthcare facilities, physician offices or even insurance companies. Better still, go for the conferences organized by Coding Conferences, where you'll get to know about all this and more!

Gain knowledge about medical coding and medical billing audio conferences with premier coding experts, CDs, tapes and transcripts of coding training information by specialty.