
Alpha Coding Podcast
By Toni Elhoms

Alpha Coding Podcast Mar 22, 2021

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Navigating Obstetrics Coding and Reporting
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CPMA, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer
Episode 72 will cover Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Navigating Obstetrics Coding and Reporting
1. Know the stages of maternity care
2. Know the trimesters of pregnancy
3. Understand the maternity OB package CPT codes
4. Know which services are bundled into global maternity care
5. Know which services are not included in global maternity care package
6. Understand the ICD-10-CM coding guidelines and rules for OB care
7. The coding rules change for twin and pregnancies involving multiples
8. Only report for the OB services rendered to the patient
9. OB documentation is different than any other specialty
10. Get plugged into the right OB resources
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Effective Project Management
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CPMA, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer
Episode 71 will cover Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Effective Project Management
1. Start with a mind-map
2. Identify the project requirements
3. Develop a customized action plan for each project
4. Define expectations for each project
5. Collaboration is a critical element
6. Anticipate challenges and risks
7. Create a feedback loop
8. Leverage project management technology
9. Test your deliverables
10. Reflect on what worked well and what can be better for future projects
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Navigating Medical Credentialing
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CPMA, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer
In episode 70, we sit down with special guest Yesenia Servin, the Founder of YS Credentialing. Yesenia has over 20 years of experience in healthcare credentialing, payer contracting and enrollment. Yesenia shares her best Pro-Tips for Navigating Medical Credentialing.
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Improving Your Work-Life Balance
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CPMA, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
Episode 69 will cover Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Improving Your Work-Life Balance
1. Recognize the importance of balance
2. Calendar block for both work and life
3. Establish boundaries
4. The Pomodoro method works
5. Work smarter, not harder
6. Unplug from the world
7. Prioritize your health
8. Learn to say no and be guilt free about it
9. Everyone needs a break from the status quo
10. No one has a perfect work-life balance
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Navigating Gender Dysphoria Coding and Reporting
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CPMA, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
Episode 68 will cover Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Navigating Gender Dysphoria Coding and Reporting
1. Understand the clinical definition of Gender Dysphoria
2. Terminology matters
3. The Affordable Care Act transformed treatment for Gender Dysphoria Patients
4. Medical necessity trumps everything
5. Establish workflows and protocols for recording data for Gender Dysphoria Patients
6. Know the appropriate ICD-10-CM Codes for Gender Dysphoria Patients
7. Report appropriate comorbidities
8. Understand the most common services reported for Gender Dysphoria Patients
9. Know what procedures are considered cosmetic for Gender Dysphoria Patients
10. Append the KX Modifier when appropriate
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Navigating Remote Patient Monitoring in 2021
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CPMA, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
Episode 67 will cover Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Navigating Remote Patient Monitoring in 2021
1. Understand the goals of remote patient monitoring
2. Patient consent is required
3. RPM can be ordered and billed only by Physicians or NPPs
4. RPM is not exclusive to chronic care patients
5. There must be an established Patient-Physician/Provider relationship after the PHE expires
6. Biometric data transmission must be electronically collected
7. Know the RPM codes
8. Understand the interactive communication requirement
9. RPM Devices must meet the FDA’s definition of a medical device
10. RPM reporting should be patient-specific
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Mastering Physical Therapy Coding
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CPMA, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
Episode 66 will cover Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Mastering Physical Therapy Coding
1. Everything starts with the PT evaluation
2. Know the difference between time-based PT codes and service-based PT codes
3. Understand the 8-minute rule
4. Pay close attention to units for each CPT Code
5. Direct patient contact is required for one-on-one services
6. Be mindful of PT supervision requirements
7. Leverage technology with built-in PT billing calculations
8. Take note of the TelePT rule changes and expansion during the PHE
9. Verify payer policies on PT
10. Routine audits and education are a non-negotiable
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Navigating Medical Scribe Compliance
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CPMA, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
Episode 65 will cover Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Navigating Medical Scribe Compliance
1. Understand the Medical Scribe’s role
2. Medical Scribes are not required to be licensed
3. Know the Joint Commission standards
4. Medical Scribes are not exclusive to Doctors
5. Medical Scribes do not require an employment relationship with the Practitioner
6. Medical Scribes require training and must comply with the same regulatory requirements as other personnel
7. Strong Attestations are key for compliance
8. Medical Scribes are not qualified to function as Medical Coders
9. You cannot bill separately for the Scribe’s time
10. Oversight and auditing protocols are crucial for compliance
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Effectively Managing Down
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CPMA, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
Episode 64 will cover Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Effectively Managing Down
1. Get to know every member of your team
2. Set clear expectations and deadlines
3. Create an environment that enables growth
4. Give credit where credit is due
5. Encourage autonomy
6. Establish a consistent feedback loop
7. Make yourself accessible and available to your team
8. Leaders should speak last
9. Communicate the vision
10. The best Leaders serve others
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Minimizing Revenue Leakage
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CPMA, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
Episode 63 will cover Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Minimizing Revenue Leakage
1. Make sure all Provider credentialing is accurate and up to date
2. Review Payer contracts at least once per year
3. Ensure accurate Patient data capture
4. Establish robust Patient eligibility, prior-authorization, and collections workflows and processes
5. Let Coders be the CODERS
6. Let Billers be the BILLERS
7. Invest in regular, ongoing staff training
8. Keep your Providers involved, engaged, and invested
9. Quality Payment Programs (QPP) should not be ignored
10. Recognize the only constant in healthcare is change
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Streamlining Your Revenue Cycle Management (RCM)
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CPMA, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
In episode 62, we sit down with special guest Rozmin Bapat, President at CodeRite Healthcare Consulting, a medical billing and healthcare consulting company. Rozmin is known as an RCM Champion and shares her best Pro-Tips for Streamlining Your Revenue Cycle Management.
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Leveraging Data Analytics to Combat Fraud, Waste, and Abuse (FWA)
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CPMA, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
In episode 61, we sit down with special guest Karen Weintraub, Executive Vice President at Healthcare Fraud Shield a software provider specializing in fraud, waste, and abuse detection. Karen shares her best Pro-Tips for Leveraging Data Analytics to Combat Fraud, Waste, and Abuse (FWA).
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Learning A New Specialty in Coding
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CPMA, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
Episode 60 will cover Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Learning A New Specialty in Coding
1. Research the top reported services/procedures for the specialty
2. Research the top reported ICD-10-CM codes for the specialty
3. Review the Medical Specialty society’s website and resources
4. Request to shadow a Provider
5. Review the coding guidelines for the specialty
6. Research applicable LCDs and NCDs for the specialty
7. Research applicable NCCI and MUE edits for the specialty
8. Understand that most all medical providers render evaluation and management services
9. Realize some specialties take years to master
10. Consult with industry experts when necessary
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CPMA, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
Episode 59 will cover Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
1. Imposter syndrome works in cycles
2. Recognize feelings associated with imposter syndrome in yourself
3. Separate feelings from facts
4. Imposter syndrome and perfectionism are like salt and pepper
5. Identify your imposter syndrome triggers
6. Beware of manipulators
7. Develop a healthy relationship with failure
8. Control your inner dialogue
9. Leverage visuals to remind yourself of your accomplishments and expertise
10. Share your imposter syndrome experiences with others
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Effectively Managing Up
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CPMA, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
Episode 58 will cover Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Effectively Managing Up
1. Recognize that we are all human
2. Recognize each level of management has its own set of challenges
3. Toxic leadership breeds Toxic Managers
4. Identify Your Manager’s Goals
5. Study your Manager’s personality and habits
6. Avoid blindsiding your Boss at all costs
7. Learn how to avoid the last-minute emergencies from your Boss
8. Educate your Boss about how to leverage your talents in the best capacity
9. Respect your Manager’s Time
10. When you succeed your Boss succeeds
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Navigating Locum Tenens Compliance
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CPMA, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
Episode 57 will cover Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Navigating Locum Tenens Compliance
1. Understand the goal of Locum Tenens Rules
2. Apply HCPCS modifier Q6 when appropriate
3. Locum Tenens rules do not apply to Non-Physician Practitioners (NPPs)
4. Locum Tenens Physicians are not part-time employees
5. Locum Tenens is a Medicare specific Rule
6. Understand the active duty military exception
7. Understand how the Locum Tenens rules apply to Medical Group Claims
8. Don’t misuse the Locum Tenens rules to avoid credentialing new providers
9. Don’t take compliance advice from a Locum Tenens company
10. The cost of getting Locum Tenens compliance wrong is steep
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Understanding Critical Care Compliance
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CPMA, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
Episode 56 will cover Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Understanding Critical Care Compliance
1. Know the Critical Care Code requirements
2. Clinical Documentation must support active Critical Care by the rendering provider
3. The site of service does not determine whether Critical Care can be reported
4. Critical Care is not just for the Pulmonologists
5. Clinical Documentation must be consistent throughout the note
6. Every service is not Critical Care
7. Combining multiple providers Critical Care time on one day is not permissible under Medicare rules
8. Don’t unbundle other services
9. Avoid canned phrases
10. Expect payer audits
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Negotiating Your Next Raise
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CPMA, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
Episode 55 will cover Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Negotiating Your Next Raise
1. Educate yourself about the market
2. Make sure the timing of your discussion is right
3. Setup a meeting with your boss with a specific agenda to discuss performance and salary
4. Come prepared with a list of data points
5. Emphasize any new responsibilities you have taken on
6. Don’t let your emotions get the best of you
7. Refrain from using the phrase “I deserve it”
8. Come prepared with your ask and methodology
9. Negotiate an extra week of paid vacation
10. Nothing is personal in business
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Navigating the Coding Profession in 2021
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CPMA, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
Episode 54 will cover Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Navigating the Coding Profession in 2021
1. The market has changed
2. Networking is a lifestyle
3. The business of medicine is complex
4. Focus on the big picture
5. Key words in job postings are important
6. Certifications alone will not elevate you
7. Hands-on experience trumps education
8. You are entitled to nothing
9. Look for ways to increase your authority as a SME
10. Recognize the industry trends
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Increasing Your EQ
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CPMA, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
Episode 53 will cover Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Increasing Your EQ
1. Understand the importance of EQ
2. Look deep within yourself
3. Seek out another perspective
4. Hit the Pause button
5. Your reaction to criticism speaks volumes about your EQ
6. The weight of another person’s opinion of you should not influence your opinion of you
7. Learn to exercise self-control
8. Practice empathy
9. Communication is your currency
10. Make your emotions work for you, not against you
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Navigating Incident-To Compliance
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CPMA, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
Episode 52 will cover Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Navigating Incident-To Compliance
1. Understand the application of incident-to rules
2. Know the different types of supervision guidelines
3. State laws dictate provider scope of practice rights
4. Understand the financial incentives related to incident-to
5. Provider Credentialing must be setup correctly from the beginning
6. New patients can never be reported under incident-to
7. Incident-to rules do not apply in the hospital
8. Payer policies tend to vary on incident-to
9. Know how to audit for incident-to compliance
10. The incident-to rules are antiquated and desperately need reform
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Mastering Prolonged Services in 2021
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CPMA, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
Episode 51 will cover Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Mastering Prolonged Services in 2021
1. Know the different types of Prolonged services
2. Understand the new time-based coding methodology
3. Know how to apply the new Prolonged service codes
4. Verify payer policies on Prolonged services
5. Audit Prolonged services regularly
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Leveling Up in 2021
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CPMA, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
Episode 50 will cover Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Leveling Up in 2021
1. Create your vision board for 2021
2. A new year won’t make a new you
3. You will fail your way to success
4. Get comfortable being uncomfortable
5. Work on mastering yourself
6. Stop blaming other people for your life
7. Recognize that there is no loss in going for it
8. Control your inner dialogue
9. Proclaim your destiny
10. Avoid the pain of regret
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Passing the CPMA Exam
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CPMA, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
Episode 49 will cover Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Passing the CPMA Exam
1. Know your regulatory guidelines
2. You will need a working knowledge of E/M Auditing
3. You will need a working knowledge of SX Auditing
4. You will need a working knowledge of NCCI edits and MUEs
5. Study Infusion Coding
6. Study statistically valid sampling methodologies
7. Understand the application of controlling standards vs. persuasive standards
8. Read the AAPC CPMA study guide from cover to cover
9. Take the practice exams
10. Believe in YOURSELF
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Managing Conflict in the Workplace
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
Episode 48 will cover Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Managing Conflict in the Workplace
1. Conflict comes with the territory
2. Don’t take it personally
3. Don’t react impulsively
4. Address the issue privately
5. Use active listening in the discussion
6. Attack the problem, not the person
7. Paraphrase your understanding of what was said
8. Be mindful of your body language
9. Recognize that every conflict will not be resolvable
10. The power is in the follow-up
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Navigating Emergency Medicine
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
In episode 47, we sit down with special guest, Dr. Burton Bentley II, CEO of Elite Medical Experts in Tucson, AZ. Dr. Bentley is a Board-Certified Emergency Medicine Physician and nationally recognized expert on medical liability, informed consent, and complex issues related to Medicine, Business & Law. After 21 years practicing Emergency Medicine, Dr. Bentley shares his best Pro-Tips for Navigating Emergency Medicine.
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Mastering Family Medicine Coding
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
In episode 46, we sit down with special guest, Sarah Ragan, President of the Daytona Beach, FL AAPC Chapter, Coding Instructor at Daytona College, and seasoned Family Medicine Coder. Family Medicine is a specialty of medicine that includes patients of all ages and health statuses and proves to be challenging for many coding professionals. In this episode, Sarah shares her best Pro-Tips for Mastering Family Medicine Coding.
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Passing an Upcoming AAPC Certification Exam
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
Episode 45 will cover Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Passing an Upcoming AAPC Certification Exam
1. Know thyself
2. Do the math
3. Purchase the specific AAPC Study Guide for the desired certification
4. The AAPC practice exams are worth their weight in gold
5. Allow enough time to properly study for the exam
6. Avoid things that will disqualify you from testing
7. Leverage the process of elimination
8. The more certification exams you take the more proficient you become
9. The post-exam waiting game will drive you insane
10. Believe in yourself
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Facilitating Effective Physician Queries
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
In episode 44, we sit down with special guest, Glenn Krauss, Founder and CEO at Core CDI and Top Gun Audit School. Queries play an important role in validating clinical documentation. In this episode, Glenn shares his best Pro-Tips for Facilitating Effective Physician Queries.
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Polishing Your Resume
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
Episode 43 will cover Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Polishing Your Resume
1. The top of your resume is prime real estate
2. Simplify it
3. Semantics matter
4. Quantify your accuracy and productivity
5. Your resume is not a college transcript
6. Don’t misrepresent yourself
7. You need 3 file versions of your resume
8. Ditch the antiquated sections
9. Don’t post your resume on your LinkedIn profile
10. Avoid the obvious resume gaffes
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Adopting a No Excuses Mindset
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
In episode 42, we sit down with special guest, Cheryl Turner, EdD, R.T., (R)(T), Director of Global Education & Training at Legion Healthcare Partners. Mindset is everything and calibrating the right mindset takes intention and investment. In this episode, Cheryl shares her best Pro-Tips for Adopting a No Excuses Mindset.
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Mastering Evaluation and Management (E/M) Coding in 2021
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
Episode 41 will cover Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Mastering Evaluation and Management (E/M) Coding in 2021
1. Don’t believe everything you hear
2. History and physical exam still need to be documented
3. Leveling can be based on Time or MDM
4. MDM gets a face lift
5. Say Goodbye to 99201 (for most payers)
6. Evaluate your payer mix
7. Take note of the new time ranges for each level
8. Prolonged services have some notable updates
9. Take note of what didn’t change
10. Leverage your toolkit
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Manifesting Your Future
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
Episode 40 will cover Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Pro-Tips for Manifesting Your Future
1. Put your dreams into the universe
2. Visual reminders are critical to manifestation
3. Raise your standards
4. Avoid limiting beliefs
5. Get crystal clear about your goals
6. Don’t get distracted
7. Become obsessed with your own personal growth
8. Avoid the scarcity mindset
9. The law of proximity is real
10. Success is formulaic
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Succeeding As An Expert Witness
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
Episode 39 will cover Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Succeeding As An Expert Witness
1. Working as an expert is a contact sport
2. Learn the legal jargon and decorum
3. Your communication skills must be exemplary
4. Touch every document in your expert file
5. Be mindful of all written communications
6. Never tell a lie under oath
7. Every word you say matters
8. A high-level of Emotional Intelligence (EQ) is fundamental
9. Be prepared for a Daubert challenge
10. You’re only as good as your reputation
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Leveraging LinkedIn Premium
Episode 38 will cover Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Leveraging LinkedIn Premium
1. Unlock the LinkedIn Premium Badge
2. Increased data analytics
3. Actionable data is king
4. You get access to LinkedIn Learning
5. Access to exclusive dashboards
6. Access to the resume builder
7. The InMail message feature is unlocked
8. You get a 30 day risk-free trial
9. The ROI is significant
10. Think of Linkedin Premium as an investment in yourself
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Navigating the Remote Reality
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
In episode 37, we sit down with special guest, Dr. Thomas Kramer, PHD, MPH, Professor of Psychology at Daytona State College. Dr. Kramer is an accomplished academic and has published many scholarly articles on topics such as: addiction, trauma, and the use of electronic health records in Behavioral Health, etc. In episode 37 – Dr. Kramer shares his best Pro-Tips for Navigating the Remote Reality!
To connect with Dr. Kramer you can email him @ tkramer@taskenterprises.com
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Understanding Medical Necessity – A Physician’s Perspective
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
In episode 36, we sit down with special guest, Dr. John Zelem from Streamline Solutions Consulting. Dr. Zelem is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and practiced General Surgery for over 25 years with extensive expertise as a physician advisor, specializing in utilization management, compliance, and clinical documentation. In episode 36 – Dr. Zelem shares his best Pro-Tips for Understanding Medical Necessity from the Physician’s perspective.
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Upgrading Your Productivity and Efficiency
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
Episode 35 will cover Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Upgrading Your Productivity and Efficiency
1. Implement effective strategies
2. Get a desk calendar
3. Deconstruct every task
4. Set measurable daily goals
5. Eliminate distractions
6. Don’t compromise quality over quantity
7. Automation is your best friend
8. Reverse engineer your week
9. Don’t let the day run you!
10. Accountability is everything
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Pro-Tips for Navigating Digital Health in 2020
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
In episode 34, we sit down with special guest, Aneel Irfan from Irfan Medical Supplies & Technologies. Aneel is a Digital Health expert and hosts the 10X Healthcare Podcast. In episode 34 - Aneel shares his best Pro-Tips for Navigating Digital Health in 2020, strategies for success, and what the future holds in this ever-changing healthcare landscape.
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Producing a Podcast
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
Episode 33 will cover Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Producing a Podcast
1. Understand the time commitment
2. Define your purpose and mission for the podcast
3. Define your target audience
4. Design your brand aesthetics
5. Map out the show format
6. Iron out the podcast logistics
7. Sound quality is everything
8. Prepare for a learning curve
9. Ongoing marketing is required
10. Systematize the process
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Navigating the CDI World
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
In episode 32, we sit down with special guest, Brian Cui from Medical Coding Geek. Brian has more than 15 years of health information management (HIM) experience and is a frequent speaker at many national industry events. He is the creator and host of the Not Elsewhere Classified (NEC) podcast. In episode 32 we discuss his best Pro-Tips for Navigating the Clinical Documentation Integrity (CDI) World!
Be sure to subscribe to Brian’s YouTube Channel and comment/share to your network!
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Mastering the 2021 ICD-10-CM Code Updates
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
Episode 31 will cover Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Mastering the 2021 ICD-10-CM Code Updates
1. This is not just another update!
2. The majority of code additions are in Chapters 19 and 20
3. Review musculoskeletal expansions in Chapter 13
4. Take note of the new chapter 22
5. Review Categories Z68 and Z88 for Chapter 21
6. Review Headache Codes in Chapter 18
7. Review CKD Stage 3 in Chapter 14
8. Take note of withdrawal expansion in Chapter 5
9. Review sickle-cell anemia in Chapter 3
10. Ensure your EMR and PM systems have the new ICD-10-CM codes
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Navigating Value-Based Care Reimbursement
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
Episode 30 will cover Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Navigating Value-Based Care Reimbursement
1. Understand the paradigm shift from volume to value
2. Risk adjustment shares commonalities with the inpatient DRG system
3. Get ready for acronym central
4. Know the different types of risk adjustment
5. Understand the purpose of the RADV
6. Understand the different types of reviews
7. Professional-fee coding landscape will need to radically change
8. Physicians currently focus on CPT codes and not ICD-10-CM codes
9. Clinical documentation must support the diagnosis outside of the problem list
10. The CRC Credential is the most undervalued AAPC credential on the market today
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Reprogramming Your Mindset
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
Episode 29 will cover Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Reprogramming Your Mindset
1. Cogito, ergo sum
2. Get out of your own head
3. Nothing has meaning except for the meaning you give it
4. Fail Big and Fail Forward
5. Seek and you shall find
6. Give up the story that limits you
7. Keep promises to yourself
8. A statement has the power to open or close your mind
9. Where focus goes energy flows
10. Invest in yourself
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Navigating Chronic Care Management (CCM) Services
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
Episode 28 will cover Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Navigating Chronic Care Management (CCM) Services
1. Understand the mission of CCM
2. Understand the medical necessity criteria for CCM
3. Know the most common conditions managed by CCM programs
4. Study the CPT codes and guidelines for CCM
5. Know what constitutes the definition of clinical staff
6. Know the differences between CCM and Complex CCM
7. Tracking mechanisms will make or break CCM Program success
8. Understand the comprehensive care plan documentation requirements
9. No double dipping
10. Patient accessibility and engagement are critical components
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Mastering Physician Communication
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
Episode 27 will cover Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Mastering Physician Communication
1. Always start the conversation off on a positive note
2. Practice empathy
3. Understand the physician compensation structure in the organization
4. Your approach is everything
5. Exude confidence
6. People understand at their level of perception
7. Pick your battles
8. Make it quick and make it count
9. Accommodate their needs
10. Food can be enticing
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Increasing Your Thought Leadership
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
Episode 26 will cover Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Increasing Your Thought Leadership
1. Develop your personal brand
2. Clearly articulate your brand
3. Increase your visibility
4. Embrace the new world of content creation
5. Plan out your content ahead of time
6. Build a tribe
7. Leverage platforms that allow you to communicate on a large scale
8. Write an article in AAPC HBM Magazine
9. You can’t use up creativity!
10. Sweat Equity is gold
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Acing Your Next Interview
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
Episode 25 will cover Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Acing Your Next Interview
1. Practice makes perfect
2. If you’re not 10 minutes early then you’re 10 minutes late
3. Remain calm
4. Have your elevator speech ready to go
5. Identify the need and propose a solution
6. Don’t over speak
7. Develop a connection with the interviewer
8. Repeat the interviewer’s name
9. Have a prepared list of questions to ask the person interviewing you
10. The power is in the follow-up
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Polishing Your Public Speaking Skills
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
Episode 24 will cover Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Polishing Your Public Speaking Skills
1. Preparation is key
2. Know your subject matter inside and out
3. Know your audience
4. The size of your audience determines many things
5. Arrive early
6. Keep your energy up
7. Control your breathing
8. Do not read to the audience
9. Engage the audience
10. Work the room
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com

Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Navigating Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) Services
Welcome to the Alpha Coding Podcast series with your host, Toni Elhoms, CCS, CPC, CRC, AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer!
Episode 23 will cover Medical Coding Pro-Tips for Navigating Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) Services
1. Understand the value proposition of RPM at a high level
2. RPM programs must meet FDA qualifying device criteria
3. Understand the supervision guidelines for RPM services
4. Understand the CPT codes and guidelines for RPM
5. Know the most common conditions managed by RPM programs
6. Understand the types of RPM devices
7. Software must be integrated with devices
8. Patient engagement is a critical component of successful RPM program
9. Robust and fluid workflows are non-negotiable
10. Tracking mechanisms will make or break RPM Program success
Join us every Monday for your all-access pass to medical coding and billing Pro-Tips that help you start your week off smarter!
If you would like to become a sponsor of Alpha Coding Podcast, please contact us directly for pricing: AlphaCodingExperts@gmail.com