Summary Of Medical Coding Ethics

The following is a presentation of medical coding ethics and how one can incorporate them into an upstanding career as a professional medical coder. Ethics will be defined and the adopted code of ethics of two certification organizations will be discussed, including relevance to coding professionals and how you can incorporate them into your career. First the definition of ethics. It can be viewed in many ways but primarily it is a set of rules and guidelines in which a person is expected to conduct themselves in. These can vary greatly as they are evolved from either personal beliefs, associated behaviors, or both. Now looking at two agencies of accreditation for coding professionals, the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) and the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). There are similar ethic codes to not be in contrast with each others objectives but you will find AHIMA gives a bit more ground in the wide world of ethics.
Members are expected to uphold privacy rights, put health and welfare of persons before their own interest, protect personal health information and confidentiality, refuse to be part of any unethical practice, continue their education as directed to maintain accreditation and to be truthful in their credentials. The summary of AHIMA is more defined with clear examples and instructions on what a coder should do. Coding Professionals are expected to be accurate and consistent in their data, including reporting all elements that can be substantiated by health records. Coders are to query service providers as needed, refuse to change codes or information to misrepresent or cooperate with such. They also must maintain their continuing education credits, protect rights and confidentiality while demonstrating their commitment to ethical