Psychiatry Coding

Question: How do I obtain information about psychiatry coding and coding updates aside from American Academy of Professional Coders workshops? Right now, I just utilize the CPT books for any coding questions I might have. Even psychiatry coding software would be helpful.

Answer: The American Psychiatric Association (APA) offers a Managed Care Help Line (800 343 4671) through which you can access specialists familiar with coding. The APA has also published the CPT Handbook for Psychiatrists that you can order by calling American Psychiatric Publishing, Inc., at 800 368 5777 or by visiting www.appi.org.

Other professional psychiatry organizations (such as state groups and subspecialty groups) can also offer information. And several programs for Palmtop computers that can help with DS and CPT selection are available at www.healthypalmpilot.com/Diagnosis/Coding.