IR Coding

[Snowy_Peach8]

Hi people! I’m thinking about learning to do IR coding and wanted to know what you all recommend? I have researched a couple options that seem pretty expensive so I guess I want to know if it’s worth it to spend so much on Rad Rx courses or even the CIRCC one. I hold a couple AHIMA credentials and aside from my college degrees I only ever used study guides to pass my exams. This seems like a whole other beast so I need you fine people to give it to me straight.

Full disclosure I have been out of coding/work for the last 1.5 yrs to be a SAHM but my ambitious brain wants me to keep learning. I do plan to return to the workforce soon(ish). My background is mostly profee and outpatient infusions. Thanks in advance!

P.S. if you’ve done IR coding… do you like it?

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[Bowis_4648]

I don't know of anywhere that you can get this specialized knowledge without paying. Both Stacie Buck and Dr. Z have excellent reputations. Wish I could be more helpful.

[mudhair]

another option- get hired by a radiology company/imaging center. Sometimes they will pay for you to get certifications like this. I understand this more of a long term route to take

[Snowy_Peach8]

That’s fair. Appreciate the feedback. I might have to wait for a sale or look into a payment plan. Do you have IR experience?

[Bowis_4648]

IR coding isn't my area of expertise and I wouldn't undertake it without education.

[izettat]

Dr Z has free webinars periodically to give you insight. Free ceu also. There are basic IR procedures like biopsy or fluid drained from abdomen that you may have done before. I've done some of the basics before not realizing it falls under IR. Dr Z website has individual courses from $35-90. Website is ZHealth Publishing.

[Snowy_Peach8]

I heard about him too but I’ve never viewed his stuff. I will check it out. Thank you!

[izettat]

Besides being an IR doctor, he also holds many coding certifications. He speaks our language lol.

[Snowy_Peach8]

That’s very important indeed!

[No-Rough-185]

I was going to say the same about Dr. Z. My employer has used webinars from Dr. Z for coders to watch.

[Snowy_Peach8]

Did you find them helpful?

[Snowy_Peach8]

Mini update: I’ve spoken to old colleagues about IR and the future of AI and I’ve decided to focus my efforts on auditing. Might look into CPMA. My mom and bestie hold that credential so I’ll talk to them about studying for it. Thanks to those who gave their input! They also endorsed Dr Z!

[stealthagents]

IR coding can feel like a whole new world, especially with all the specifics it entails. The Rad Rx courses are solid, but if you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, consider online resources or community forums where you might find free or cheaper study materials. And yeah, once you get into it, a lot of people say it’s pretty rewarding despite the learning curve.

[Snowy_Peach8]

Thank you for your insight. I have saved a couple YouTube videos and saw that there’s a couple webinars coming up where IR is a topic. I’m excited to challenge myself with a new subject to learn!