Medical Assistant Certification (MAC) AMCA Practice Exam

What manual is used for coding procedures rendered in a physician's office?

1. ICD

2. CPT

3. HCPCS

4. DRG

The correct answer is: CPT

In a physician’s office, the manual used for coding procedures is the CPT (Current Procedural Terminology). The CPT manual provides a comprehensive and standardized code set for reporting medical, surgical, and diagnostic services. This coding is essential for various purposes, including billing and providing clear communication regarding the procedures performed. The CPT codes are developed and maintained by the American Medical Association (AMA) and are widely used in outpatient settings, allowing healthcare providers to reliably document the services rendered to patients. Each code reflects a specific procedure, which assists with billing processes and insurance claims. In contrast, ICD (International Classification of Diseases) codes are primarily used for diagnosing conditions rather than detailing procedural information. HCPCS (Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System) is used mainly for billing Medicare and Medicaid services and includes codes for non-physician services and supplies. DRG (Diagnosis Related Groups) is used for inpatient hospital settings to categorize hospitalization costs and determine how much to reimburse hospitals. Therefore, while these other coding systems serve important roles in the healthcare system, the CPT manual is specifically focused on coding procedures provided in a physician's office.