I remember when I was first starting out in medical coding. It was just completely overwhelming just trying to learn everything. It was like learning a new language. At one point, I came across a blog post where a coder said that they tabbed their ICD-10-CM book (this was before social media got as big as it is today. People used to spend more time reading blog posts lol). I didn’t think much of it at first. But eventually, I made tabs for my ICD-10-CM book, and I couldn’t believe how helpful it was.
Here is why:
1. Quick Navigation
Navigating the ICD-10-CM book without tabs is a pain. It can be a time-consuming and frustrating task. The book is organized into chapters, each with numerous sections and subsections. Tabs provide a visual guide, allowing coders to locate specific chapters, categories, or codes swiftly. By minimizing the time spent flipping through pages, tabs boost productivity and reduce the risk of errors.
2. Improved accuracy and confidence
Knowing that you can quickly find the information you need fosters confidence in your coding abilities. Coders who use tabbed ICD-10-CM books are less likely to second-guess themselves or make mistakes due to uncertainty. This boost in confidence can lead to better job satisfaction and less stress in a challenging field.
3. Time-Saving in Education
For aspiring medical coders, tabbed ICD-10-CM books can be invaluable during training and education. Students can quickly grasp the structure of the codebook and become more proficient in locating and using codes. This time-saving tool can expedite the learning curve for those entering the field.
Conclusion
Tabbing your ICD-10-CM book is a no-brainer in my opinion. It helps you code faster, can improve your accuracy and confidence and just help you learn the layout of the ICD-10-CM book itself.
Watch the video below to see how to tab the book:
The tabs can be purchased on my website HERE
Or in my Etsy shop
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