Tell me about yourself.
Sample Answer: “I’m a recent graduate with a degree in Life Sciences/Healthcare/relevant field.
I’ve completed my medical coding training and have gained knowledge in medical terminology,
anatomy, and physiology. I’m passionate about healthcare and chose medical coding because it
combines my interest in medicine with data management. I’m detail-oriented, committed to
accuracy, and eager where I can contribute to optimizing revenue cycle management while
learning from industry experts.”
2. What is medical coding and why is it important in healthcare?
Sample Answer: “Medical coding is the process of converting healthcare diagnoses, procedures,
medical services, and equipment into universal medical alphanumeric codes. These codes are
derived from medical records, physician’s notes, laboratory results, and radiologic reports. It’s
crucial because it ensures accurate billing processes, proper payment for healthcare providers,
standardizes medical language across the healthcare system, and enables healthcare research
and statistical analysis.”
3. Can you explain the difference between ICD-10, CPT, and HCPCS codes?
Sample Answer:
• ICD-10 codes (International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision) are used
globally to classify diagnoses and health conditions, representing what’s wrong with the patient
• CPT codes (Current Procedural Terminology) describe medical, surgical, and
diagnostic services and procedures - essentially what was done to the patient
• HCPCS codes (Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System) are used alongside
CPT codes, primarily for medical supplies, equipment, and services not covered by CPT codes”
4. What’s the difference between inpatient and outpatient coding?
Sample Answer: “Inpatient coding is used for patients who are formally admitted to a hospital
and stay overnight or longer. It typically uses ICD-10-CM for diagnoses and ICD-10-PCS for
procedures. Outpatient coding is for patients who receive medical care without being admitted -
like clinic visits, same-day surgeries, or emergency department visits. Outpatient coding uses
ICD-10-CM for diagnoses and CPT codes for procedures.”
5. What are modifiers and why are they used in CPT coding?
Sample Answer: “Modifiers are two-digit codes that provide additional information about a
procedure or service without changing its basic definition. They indicate circumstances such as
whether a procedure was bilateral, performed by multiple surgeons, had an unusual
circumstance, or was a repeat procedure. Modifiers ensure accurate billing and prevent claim
denials by providing context that might affect reimbursement.”
6. What is medical necessity in coding?
Sample Answer: “Medical necessity means that a healthcare service, procedure, or treatment
must be reasonable and necessary for the diagnosis or treatment of illness or injury, or to
improve the functioning of a malformed body member. It must be justified based on the patient’s
medical condition and documented appropriately for insurance coverage. Without proper
documentation of medical necessity, claims may be denied.”
7. How do you ensure accuracy in your coding work?
Sample Answer: “I ensure accuracy by thoroughly reviewing medical documentation, staying
updated with current coding guidelines and changes, using official coding manuals and
resources, double-checking codes before submission, consulting with supervisors when
uncertain, and participating in ongoing education. I also understand the importance of reading
the complete medical record to capture all relevant diagnoses and procedures.”
8. What is HIPAA and why is it important in medical coding?
Sample Answer: “HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) protects patient
health information and ensures secure medical billing practices. As a medical coder, I must
maintain strict confidentiality of all patient records, only access information necessary for my job
duties, and follow all security protocols to protect Protected Health Information (PHI). HIPAA
compliance is essential to maintain patient trust and avoid legal issues.”
Anatomy and Physiology Questions
9. Name the major body systems a medical coder should be familiar with.
Sample Answer: “The major body systems include:
• Cardiovascular system (heart, blood vessels)
• Respiratory system (lungs, airways)
• Musculoskeletal system (bones, muscles, joints)
• Digestive system (stomach, intestines, liver)
• Nervous system (brain, spinal cord, nerves)
• Endocrine system (hormones, glands)
• Urinary system (kidneys, bladder)
• Reproductive system
• Integumentary system (skin)”
