Technology and Patient Care
In Module Five, you will explore the use of electronic technology in the
medical healthcare world. This method is intended to improve the
healthcare provided to patients by documenting their total conditions in a
format that can be assessed by more than the one provider treating the
conditions. In addition, you will examine some of the technology used to
accommodate the availability of the documented medical records. While the
electronic medical record is a tool that works very well for improving the
healthcare of patients, it also must be monitored very closely to maintain
compliance with documentation guidelines. The electronic health record
presents its own set of issues in regard to monitoring medical
documentation.
As part of the certification process, the ability to show knowledge is very
important. There are many certifications through many organizations. For
example, AAPC and AHIMA offer many coding certifications. For each of
these organizations, there are many benefits to becoming a member. Some
of the benefits are low-cost or no-cost continuing education courses,
webinars, and seminars, along with many opportunities to attend local,
regional, or national conferences with professionals in the field. It is a great
networking opportunity and allows for continued learning and attainment of
knowledge. As part of the certification process, knowledge of electronic
health records and documents, and compliance with all of the rules and
regulations that keep our patients safe, are essential.
Some available exams are the CCS exam through AHIMA, which contains
150 multiple-choice questions along with 16 case studies that require the
case to be coded in its entirety. The CPC exam through AAPC requires the
candidate to answer 150 multiple-choice questions. Each exam has a time
limit of 4.5 to 5 hours. It takes much concentration and organization to
complete the exam in the time limit.
To allow for some additional practice, this module contains a short quiz on
ICD-10 coding. It contains some short case studies and chart notes that
need to be assessed, and a diagnosis to be assigned. This will allow you to
practice how part of the exam may be presented.
