What does a medical coding audit assess?

A medical coding audit primarily focuses on the billing and coding accuracy within a healthcare organization's documentation and processes. The goal of such an audit is to ensure that the codes assigned for procedures, diagnoses, and services accurately reflect the medical records and that they comply with current coding guidelines and payer requirements. This not only impacts the reimbursement process but also supports the integrity of the organization's financial health.

Auditing for coding accuracy helps in identifying discrepancies that may lead to denied claims or underpayment, thereby ensuring that providers receive appropriate compensation for their services. Furthermore, an effective coding audit evaluates adherence to regulations and standards set by organizations such as the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) and the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA).

While other choices mention areas important in healthcare, such as treatment effectiveness, patient outcomes, and claims policies, they do not directly relate to the core function of a coding audit. The audit's focus is specifically on the correctness of codes used for billing, making it a critical aspect of revenue cycle management.