Neoplasm ICD-10-CM Coding Introduction Course

Description

This course delves into the intricate world of neoplasms, offering a comprehensive understanding of these growths or tumors, from their fundamental definition as 'new formations' to their various types, including malignant and benign. The critical concepts of primary and secondary sites are explored, along with guidance on how to differentiate and accurately code them in accordance with the ICD-10-CM guidelines. The course covers characterizing neoplasms based on histologic behavior, such as malignant primary and secondary, carcinoma in situ, benign, uncertain, and unspecified behavior. Practical examples and guidance are provided for using the Neoplasm Table and handling complex scenarios like overlapping lesions and tumor varieties. Additionally, sequencing neoplasm diagnosis codes depending on the treatment focus is thoroughly explained.

Included Lessons:

What is a Neoplasm?
Types of Neoplasms
Primary and/or Secondary Sites
Characterizing Neoplasms
Coding Clinic Reference
Overlapping Lesions
Tumor Varieties
Sequencing of Neoplasms
Conclusion

Key Takeaways

By the end of the course, medical coders will be well-prepared to accurately code neoplastic conditions, a crucial skill in the healthcare industry, ensuring proper billing, treatment tracking, and epidemiological data collection. Some key takeaways include:

Understanding of Neoplasms: Students will have a clear understanding of what neoplasms are, their definition as "new formations," and the importance of distinguishing between malignant and benign types.
Primary and Secondary Sites: Coders will be proficient in identifying primary and secondary sites of neoplasms, knowing how to interpret medical documentation to determine the site of origin and sites affected by metastasis.
Characterization and Histologic Behavior: Students will learn to characterize neoplasms based on histologic behavior, differentiating between malignant primary, malignant secondary, carcinoma in situ, benign, uncertain, and unspecified behavior.
Neoplasm Table Usage: Participants will gain practical skills in using the Neoplasm Table provided in the ICD-10-CM codebook to find specific anatomical sites and associated morphology codes.
Handling Complex Scenarios: Coders will be equipped to handle complex scenarios, including overlapping lesions, where neoplasms involve two or more contiguous sites, and diverse tumor varieties that may not always end in "-oma."
Sequencing Diagnosis Codes: The course will teach students how to correctly sequence neoplasm diagnosis codes, depending on the treatment focus, whether it's directed at the primary site, secondary site, or administration of chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
ICD-10-CM Guidelines: Participants will become familiar with the ICD-10-CM Official Coding Guidelines for Neoplasms, ensuring compliance and accuracy in coding practices.

What is the significance of distinguishing between malignant and benign neoplasms?

Distinguishing between malignant and benign neoplasms is crucial because it impacts treatment decisions, prognosis, and coding. Accurate coding helps ensure appropriate patient care and billing.

How can I effectively use the Neoplasm Table?

The Neoplasm Table helps you find specific anatomical sites and associated morphology codes. Refer to it for accurate coding, and verify with the Tabular List for specificity.

How do I determine the primary and secondary sites of a neoplasm?

The primary site is where the neoplasm originated, while secondary sites are those affected by metastasis. Interpret medical documentation to identify these sites, and use ICD-10-CM codes accordingly.

About our Medical Coding Courses

HIAlearn, powered by Health Information Associates (HIA)—a leader in medical coding and auditing for more than three decades—offers a comprehensive online education platform for medical coders. With a catalog of over 200 medical coding courses accepted by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) for Continuing Education Units (CEUs) and a selection approved by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC), HIAlearn caters to both beginners and experienced medical coders seeking to enhance their skills. The platform provides an array of training plans tailored to meet individual learning needs, from mastering challenging coding procedures to understanding broad conceptual frameworks within the coding world. Courses are available across various coding types including CPT, E/M, ICD-10-CM, ICD-10-PCS, and are designed to cater to different coder levels and coding specialties such as inpatient, outpatient, profee, and CDI. Additionally, HIAlearn offers a Coding Updates bundle to ensure coders are up-to-date with the annual changes in ICD-10-CM, ICD-10-PCS, CPT, and IPPS. Beyond individual learning, HIAlearn supports organizations with group discounts, promoting enhanced coding accuracy, efficiency, and compliance across teams.