Master Your Medical Coder and Biller Interview

Refresh your knowledge of ICD-10-CM/PCS, CPT, and HCPCS Level II coding systems. Review official coding guidelines, including chapter-specific guidelines, and understand how to properly sequence diagnoses and procedures. Be prepared to discuss recent coding updates or changes affecting your specialty area.

Practice coding scenarios before your interview. Bring examples of complex cases you've coded, demonstrating your analytical approach to documentation review, code selection, and proper modifier usage. Interviewers often ask candidates to walk through their coding process for hypothetical scenarios.

Review your knowledge of the revenue cycle, from patient registration through claim submission and payment posting. Understand different payer types (Medicare, Medicaid, commercial insurance), their specific billing requirements, and common reasons for claim denials.

Be prepared to discuss your experience with billing software, clearinghouses, electronic claim submission, and denial management. Demonstrate your understanding of proper claim scrubbing, timely filing requirements, and appeals processes.

Develop specific examples demonstrating your commitment to coding accuracy and compliance. Use the STAR method to describe situations where you identified coding errors, implemented quality improvements, or addressed compliance concerns.

Understand OIG compliance guidelines, Medicare audit programs (RAC, MAC, CERT), and anti-fraud regulations. Be prepared to discuss how you ensure coding accuracy, handle queries with providers, and maintain documentation standards.

Research the healthcare organization's specialties, services, and any unique coding challenges they may face. If it's a specific specialty practice (orthopedics, cardiology, oncology, etc.), review specialty-specific coding guidelines and common procedures.