6 short cuts to on-target diagnosis coding

Why This Topic Matters

It matters because small reference-workflow improvements can save time, support consistency, and help coders find the right source materials more efficiently when assigning diagnosis codes.

Article Sections

1. Tip #1: Use the quick swipe of a blue highlighter

   Discusses a time-saving way to mark commonly referenced diagnosis entries in ICD-9-CM materials for future use.

2. Practical diagnosis coding strategies from conference speakers

   Introduces additional workflow ideas shared by coding educators and conference presenters.

3. Tip #2: Jot down where you find your difficult codes

   Covers a method for tracking hard-to-find diagnosis entries so they can be located more quickly later.

4. Tip #3: Keep a notebook of terminology

   Describes a note-taking approach for unfamiliar terminology and personal study support.

5. Tip #4: Use Google and other search engines

   Explains how general web search tools can be used to locate information related to coding references and medical terms.

6. Tip #5: Use the paper manual when helpful

   Compares paper and computer-based reference methods for ICD-9-CM lookup efficiency and note-taking.

7. Tip #6: Use Appendix A: Morphology of Neoplasms

   Highlights a lesser-known ICD-9-CM appendix resource connected to neoplasm classification and reference lookup support.