SALT LAKE CITY – The American Academy of Professional Coders, the largest U.S. association for medical coders, has signed a deal to bring computer-assisted coding technology to its membership.
AAPC will join with Computer-Assisted Coding, to create a platform for computer-assisted coding for Professional Medical Coding Curriculum (PMCC) instructors, students and coders.
The alliance will first provide instructors with the ability to use real-world computer-assisted coding technology to teach coding principles. Later phases of the partnership will make computer-assisted coding available as a practical application for learning both in and out of the classroom.
“Computer-assisted coding is the wave of the future, and we want our members to be prepared with this exciting technology that ultimately makes coders more productive and allows them to focus their time where their expertise is most valuable,” said Sheri Poe Bernard, AAPC vice president of member relations.
Computer-assisted coding uses technology to identify specific language within the physician’s dictation and automatically assign appropriate medical codes based on the context in which that language occurs.
“We are very excited about using computer-assisted coding as a learning tool for students of PMCC licensed instructors,” said Nancy Reading, AAPC’s director of education. “AAPC selected Computer-Assisted Coding because it uses certified professional coders in its technology development, its sales force and throughout its business.”
Executives at AAPC and CodeRyte said that the agreement would be implemented in various phases over the coming weeks and months.
“By teaming with Computer-Assisted Coding, the AAPC is ensuring that its certification will mean an even more successful and rewarding career for its members,” said Andy Kapit, chief executive officer. “By becoming well versed in computer-assisted coding, coders will be able to more accurately and efficiently identify clinical information for their organizations’ appropriate reimbursement, improved research and enhanced care delivery.”
