For the last couple weeks I’ve been on a search for software based coding tools that are used for coding ICD-10 diagnosis codes for the purpose of claims submission. I’m looking for something better than a glorified text search tool and something less than a high-cost, CAC/NLP-based module that’s bundled with an EHR or that must be integrated into an EHR. Something that can be used by coders and physician’s alike. A tool that runs on a tablet; preferably without always needing an internet connection. Something that doesn’t cost and arm and a leg.
BTW, that’d be code S58911A for losing the arm and S88011A for the leg. 🙂
I’ve scoured the internet. I’ve reached out to some medical coding associates. I’ve queried my followers. I’ve created a blog post outlining the functionality I would like to see in an ICD-10 diagnosis coding tool and repeatedly shared it out to my network. I even created an online survey.
Here’s what I found. I’ve noted why I think they’re not what I’m looking for.
| Product | Vendor | Impression |
| AAPC Coder | AAPC | Online only |
| Code Manager Elite | AMA | Online. Very rudimentary. |
| Code Search | e-MDs | Simple text search |
| Codefinder | 3M | Fat client |
| CodeRyte CodeAssist | 3M | In the ballpark |
| Cypher | ICD-10 Logic | In the ballpark |
| Dragon Medical Advisor | Nuance | New. High end. |
| Encoder Pro Expert | Optum360 | In the ballpark. |
| Encoder Pro Professional | Optum360 | In the ballpark.. |
| ezCAC | ezDI | API? Not standalone. High end |
| ezCDI | ezDI | API? Not standalone. High end |
| Flash Code | Flash Code Solutions | Similar to Optum Encoder tools |
| ICD-10 Coder Ultimate | Super Coder | PC-based |
| PLATOCODE | eMTS | PC based |
| Problem (IT) | IMO | API. High end. |
| Select Coder | Decision Health | In the ballpark. |
| TruCode Encoder | TruCode | API? Hard to determine |
My Findings
So I’ve found about five ICD-10 Diagnosis Coding Tools that are “in the ballpark.” But none of these operate on a tablet and all require an always-on Internet connection.
A Deep-dive Into Specialty Pharma
A specialty drug is a class of prescription medications used to treat complex, chronic or rare medical conditions. Although this classification was originally intended to define the treatment of rare, also termed “orphan” diseases, affecting fewer than 200,000 people in the US, more recently, specialty drugs have emerged as the cornerstone of treatment for chronic and complex diseases such as cancer, autoimmune conditions, diabetes, hepatitis C, and HIV/AIDS.
What am I doing wrong? Where am I not looking? Am I being unreasonable? Can someone point me to the ICD-10 diagnosis coding tool I’ve described at the start of this post? If so, please, please, please contact me.
If you can’t help me but can share any info about your experience with ICD-9 coding tools, please take my survey.
Photo: Flickr user Daren
