Encoders!

[@meekerica2010]

I'm glad you posted this. I just finished my coding course, and I wasn't afforded access to an encoder. When my aunt told me about them, I was disappointed that my university didn't expose us to them since it seems that a lot of medical establishments use them. This was exactly what I was looking for, some explanation of how they function. I didn't want to be completely lost when I finally get a job as a coder. They don't seem too complicated. :)

[@jakermeister]

Great video! The 3M encoder in AHIMA's VLAB is similar except that you'll need to enter the patients demographic information, select the insurance, and the admission/check out dates. I really enjoy using the simulated encoders. At first they can feel overwhelming though.

[@mariacastillo3090]

Thank you for showing us what can go wrong and when it is an actual success!

[@HoneyLemonDrops25]

Hi Kate! How do you get the APC using 3M encoder for procedures only?

[@MusicInMotion_67]

So you're not a certified coder yet, but you were able to get a job as a coder? How may I ask. I've graduated from the CCA program and I'm now taking a few more classes to get my CCS since that is the one most wanted in Southern CA, but job hunting looks like a nightmare.

[@codingwithkate3792]

Karen Sawyer nope, at the time of this video I was working through the AHIMA Coding Basics Program and hadn’t gotten a coding job. I passed the CCA exam in February 2018 so I am a certified coder but still haven’t found a coding job, no one in my area wants to hire a coder that has no on-the-job experience. I have newer videos discussing this topic and what I’m working on now and I to the future 😊

[@MusicInMotion_67]

@@codingwithkate3792 Well, don't give up. Many people say they submitted hundreds of resumes before getting a call while others are luckier. Some schools can be considered as a years experience if you do a lot of coding in the program. My program through DeVry I do a lot of coding so I'll be able to count that as a year experience. Check with AHIMA and see what they say about your program. I finished the CCA exam but in my area here in Southern CA no one is asking for the CCA, they all want the CCS and up or AAPC certifications, so I am taking three more classes to test for that. I still don't feel ready and there is still a lot to remember, but it all comes with practice. Are you any more comfortable with Op reports? That still throws me. Every time I read one I automatically go into PCS mode. Anyway, are you on the FB group Jobs for American Medical Coders? If not It's a great group and I recommend it. Lots of great advice and many professors who are part of the group as well. Feel free to look me up on there.