CCO.us Podcast | Medical Coding, Billing, Auditing & Risk Adjustment
This podcast focuses on the intricacies of medical coding, billing, auditing, and risk adjustment. Hosted by Alicia Scott, a renowned expert in the industry, it aims to educate aspiring professionals through detailed discussions and guidance. The show is produced by CCO.us, a platform offering courses and certifications in these fields. Listeners can expect practical insights from Alicia's extensive experience as a medical records abstractor, analyst, and auditor.
Episodes
Decoding Healthcare Audits: Turning Compliance into Opportunity
In this episode of the CCO.us Podcast, we’re diving deep into the world of healthcare audits, uncovering how you can turn compliance challenges into powerful growth opportunities for your practice. Whether you’re a seasoned auditor or just starting out, this episode has something for everyone. Here's what we cover:
Understanding the Essentials: Explore the most common healthcare audits, incl
OB/GYN Coding 2026: Prenatal, Delivery, Postpartum & Surgery Scenarios
OB/GYN coding can get complicated fast.
🤰 Prenatal care
👶 Vaginal vs. C-section delivery
🔄 VBAC scenarios
👶👶 Twins
📋 Postpartum care
🏥 Hysterectomy coding
In our latest episode, we're breaking down the coding logic behind the pregnancy continuum and common GYN surgical scenarios.
This episode is from the CCO Community Q&A #1760 webinar.
Watch the full video here: https://yout
Fertility & Egg Preservation Coding for 2026: IVF, Z Codes, CPT & more
Fertility and egg preservation coding changed in 2026.
Learn the new Z31 codes, IVF and ART billing rules, cryopreservation, storage, modifier FP, and the documentation details that can prevent costly denials.
This episode is from the CCO Community Q&A #1760 webinar.
Watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/C-jMXYpy6Ig
The Future of CPT Coding: CMS, AMA, HCPCS & the 2027 RFI
Is CPT going away?
CMS is questioning the current CPT structure—but the reality is much less dramatic than the headlines suggest.
Learn what the 2027 RFI actually means, why HCPCS could become more important, and how coders can prepare for the future without panicking.
This episode is from the CCO Podcast #1749 webinar.
Watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/e060lJ2gSaY
Tough Specialties - Why Cardio, Ortho and IR Feels So Hard
Why do Cardiology, Orthopedics & Interventional Radiology feel so difficult to code?
We're breaking down the anatomy, modifiers, global periods, vascular families, bundling rules and 2026 coding changes that make these specialties challenging.
This episode is from the CCO Podcast #1749 webinar.
Watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/N40H5keImdA
Error-Proof Coding Guide: Modifiers, Medical Necessity & NCCI Checklists
One missing modifier...
One missed NCCI edit...
One incorrect diagnosis...
That's all it takes for a claim denial.
Learn the 6-step error-proofing workflow every coder should use before submitting claims.
This episode is from the CCO Club Q&A #1738 webinar.
Watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/zMM_TS6Uknk
CKD Coding Explained: Documentation Checklist Every Medical Coder Needs
CKD coding can have a huge impact on documentation, HCC capture, and reimbursement.
Learn the documentation elements, staging rules, ICD-10-CM guidelines, and coding strategies every medical coder should know.
This episode is from the CCO Club Q&A #1738 webinar.
Watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/d52QSvkhrXs
Behavioral Health Coding: Substance Use Documentation & CDI Essentials
Substance Use Disorder documentation requires far more than identifying whether a patient uses alcohol or drugs. Proper coding depends on accurate provider documentation of severity, remission status, withdrawal, intoxication, substance-induced conditions, and associated comorbidities.
In this episode, we discuss the CDI essentials for behavioral health documentation and how accurate coding
What Is Forensic Medical Coding? Legal Cases, Expert Witness & Fraud Review Explained
Substance Use Disorder coding depends on accurate documentation—not assumptions. In this episode, Laureen Jandroep explains ICD-10-CM coding for substance use disorders, remission status, withdrawal, intoxication, CDI best practices, and the documentation details that improve coding accuracy and patient care.
This episode is from the CCO Community Q&A #1754 webinar.
Watch the full vi
Fraud, Waste & Abuse Explained: What Every Medical Coder Must Know
Fraud, Waste, and Abuse can affect every healthcare organization—and every medical coder. In this episode, Laureen Jandroep explains the seven federal FWA laws, common coding red flags, OIG audit targets, False Claims Act risks, and practical compliance strategies to help coders protect themselves and their organizations.
This episode is from the CCO Community Q&A #1759 webinar.
Watch t
Mental Health Coding Guide: Major Depression, PDD, and Adjustment Disorder
Major Depressive Disorder, Dysthymia, and Adjustment Disorder are frequently confused in coding, but each diagnosis has unique documentation, coding, and risk adjustment requirements. In this episode, Laureen Jandroep explains severity levels, HCC 59 implications, documentation standards, common coding errors, and how to accurately code mood disorders.
This episode is from the CCO Club Q&
Medical Coding Audits 2026: How to Prepare, Respond & Protect Your Practice
Medical coding audits can significantly impact reimbursement and compliance. In this episode, Alicia Scott explains the seven major audit programs, documentation requirements, Medicare appeals, audit triggers, and practical strategies every medical coder should use to prepare before an audit occurs.
This episode is from the CCO Community Q&A #1759 webinar.
Watch the full video here: htt
Mastering Medical Coding Modifiers: CPT, HCPCS & ICD-10-CM Explained
Modifiers are only two characters long—but they can determine whether a claim gets paid or denied.
In this episode, Laureen Jandroep explains CPT®, HCPCS Level II, and ICD-10-CM coding conventions, common modifier mistakes, audit risks, and practical strategies to improve coding accuracy and reimbursement.
This episode is from the CCO Club Q&A #1737 webinar.
Watch the full video here:
98000–98007: The Telehealth Codes Creating Chaos
The new telehealth CPT® codes 98000–98007 were designed to simplify telemedicine coding—but Medicare isn't paying them. In this episode, Alicia Scott explains the AMA vs CMS conflict, modifier 93 and 95 usage, payer-specific requirements, virtual check-in updates, and common telehealth coding mistakes every medical coder should know.
This episode is from the CCO Community Q&A #1757 webi
CPC Exam Practice: Integumentary Surgery Coding Questions
Struggling with integumentary surgery coding? In this episode, Laureen Jandroep reviews the most commonly tested CPC exam concepts, including biopsies, excisions, repairs, debridement, skin grafts, Mohs surgery, breast procedures, coding guidelines, and exam-day strategies to help improve coding accuracy and confidence.
This episode is from the CCO Community Q&A #1757 webinar. Watch the
AI in Medical Coding: Hype vs. Reality—What You Actually Need to Know in 2026
AI is reshaping medical coding workflows, but not in the way many people fear. In this episode, Laureen Jandroep explains the difference between AI hype and real-world adoption in healthcare, including coding automation, NLP tools, agentic AI, 2026 CPT changes, compliance risks, and why human coders remain essential in the AI era.
Watch the full video here https://youtu.be/2VcIZrp_u8w
AAPC vs. AHIMA: Which Certification Is Right for You?
Choosing between the CPC and CCS can shape your entire medical coding career. In this episode, Alicia Scott and Laureen Jandroep explain the differences between AAPC and AHIMA certifications, including outpatient vs inpatient coding, exam difficulty, career growth, specialization paths, remote work opportunities, and which certification may help you get hired faster.
Whether you are brand ne
Denied Claim? These Billing Case Reviews Explain Why
Billing case reviews are one of the best ways to build real-world medical billing confidence. In this episode, Laureen Jandroep and Alicia Scott walk through practical CPB-style scenarios covering coordination of benefits, Medicare Secondary Payer rules, claim forms, denials, appeals, patient responsibility, HIPAA, and compliance.
You’ll learn how to slow down, identify the real billing issu
Anesthesia Coding Basics: Guidelines Every Coder Should Know
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Podcast Description:
Anesthesia coding is one of the most misunderstood areas in medical coding—and for good reason. It doesn’t follow the same rules as other CPT sections, and even small mistakes in time, modifiers, or documentation can lead to claim denials or complianc
Don’t Miss the Deadline: Timely Filing Tips for Medical Billers
Here’s a balanced podcast description (not too short, not too long, same style as your previous ones) 👇
Timely filing might sound simple—but it’s one of the biggest reasons claims get denied in medical billing. In this episode, we break down how filing deadlines vary by payer, why missing even one day can cost you payment, and how to manage multiple timelines across claims, corrections, an
Struggling with PCI CPT Coding? (Percutaneous Coronary Intervention)
In this episode, we break down the fundamentals of PCI (percutaneous coronary intervention) coding and how to accurately assign CPT codes for cardiac procedures. Learn the importance of coding hierarchy, how to distinguish between angioplasty, stent placement, and atherectomy, and why documentation and vessel identification are critical. Perfect for coders looking to simplify complex cardiolo
Cardiology coding made easy: Master Cardiovascular Terminology & Coding
In this episode, we break down the essentials of cardiology coding—one of the most complex yet high-impact specialties in medical coding. You’ll learn key heart anatomy, common cardiac conditions like ischemia, myocardial infarction, and arrhythmias, plus how to accurately apply CPT and ICD-10 codes for procedures such as EKGs, stress tests, cardiac catheterizations, and more. We also highlig
Medical Coding for Anxiety, PTSD & Stress Disorders (F40–F43 Guide)
Behavioral health coding can be one of the most challenging areas in medical coding—and one of the most misunderstood.
In this episode, we break down how to accurately code anxiety disorders, PTSD, and adjustment disorders (ICD-10 F40–F43) using clear, real-world examples. Learn how DSM-5 criteria, symptom duration, and functional impact directly affect your coding decisions and reimbursemen
Why Medical Coders Need to Join the CCO Club
In this episode, Laureen Jandroep shares how the CCO Club provides CEUs, expert coding help, and AI-powered study tools to support medical coders preparing for certifications and tackling real-world coding challenges.
Join the CCO Club here https://www.cco.us/club/
April 2026 ICD-10-CM Updates
The April 2026 ICD-10-CM updates may not add new diagnosis codes, but they do introduce important rule changes. In this episode, Alicia Scott explains what coders, CDI teams, auditors, and leaders need to review before April 1.
Medical Coding Terminology: What Every Coder Should Know
Medical coding gets easier when the language makes sense.
In this episode, CCO Podcast #1744, we will break down the medical coding terminology every coder must understand to code accurately, reduce denials, and feel more confident reading real-world charts.
In this session, we’ll cover:
✅ The most common clinical terms that show up in everyday documentation
✅ Key prefixes, suffixes, and
How to Pass the CPC Exam - Layout & Prep: Everything You Need to Know
Preparing for the CPC® exam? In this episode, we break down the CPC exam layout, timing strategy, and proven prep tips to help you pass with confidence. Learn how the exam is structured, what to expect on test day, and how to study smarter using effective test-taking strategies. Whether you're a first-time candidate or retaking the AAPC CPC exam, this guide will help you avoid common mistakes
AAPC Exam: At-Home vs Testing Center — Which Should You Choose?
Not sure whether to take your AAPC exam at home or at a testing center? In this episode, we compare at-home vs testing center AAPC exams, covering pros, cons, common issues, and what to expect on exam day. Learn how online proctoring works, the risks of testing from home, and when a testing center may be the better option. Perfect for CPC®, CRC®, and other AAPC exam candidates who want to cho
Your CRC Exam Game Plan: Layout + Practice Tips
Ready to pass the AAPC CRC® certification with confidence?
In this episode, we break down a powerful CRC Exam Game Plan that helps you study smarter, not longer. From structuring your study schedule to mastering key practice strategies, we guide you through practical tips that have helped countless learners succeed.
Whether you’re just starting your prep or feeling stuck in a rut, this conv
Time Management for Medical Coders
Watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-S0C5msFG0k
Struggling with time management for medical coding? Join our podcast as we dive into practical strategies to help you take control of your hours and productivity. Learn insider tips from veteran coders on optimizing your daily schedule, avoiding distractions, and improving your coding speed. We’ll break down reasonable coding produ
How to Become a Medical Coder in 2024
Watch on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_iQVypZKCwo
Get the inside scoop on the future of medical coding in this can't-miss episode! Coding expert Alicia Scott walks through everything you need to know to launch a successful coding career in 2024 and beyond.
She covers crucial topics like emerging technologies, compliance regulations, soft skills, career opportunities, testing c
Top 5 Things to Say in a Medical Coding Job Interview
Watch the video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ak9zFDkfqMI
Get the inside scoop on acing your next medical coding job interview! Join coding expert Alicia Scott as she shares the top 5 things you need to say to stand out from the competition.
You'll learn tips for crafting the perfect elevator pitch, highlighting accomplishments that fit the role, showing passion for coding, addressing
How to Get Started in Medical Coding
Medical Coding Online Course. Looking to start a career in medical coding? We answer common questions on how to break into this exciting industry.
Get actionable tips from coding experts on the basics of getting started, like networking with professionals, building on existing skills, and choosing the right educational program. Learn about various coding credentials, the skills needed to suc
Medical Coding Practice Cases in Neurology
Get the full video in the CCO Club at https://www.cco.us/club/. Get an inside look at real-world clinical documentation in this episode as we review physician notes for a patient with multiple neurological conditions. We'll break down two separate patient encounters from different providers, analyzing the medical history, physical exam findings, impression, and more. You'll learn how to ident
2024 ICD-10-CM Updates Webinar - Learn About New, Changed and Deleted ICD-10-CM Codes
Heads up! This podcast is also available on YouTube at https://youtube.com/live/MPCAlTchdRE
Get the inside scoop on all the new, revised, and deleted ICD-10 codes for 2024! In this code-packed episode, we walk through the key changes in a fun and engaging way.
Learn what the new codes for sepsis, Parkinson's disease, sickle cell disease, and more really mean. We'll explain challenging conce
15 Things to Ask a Medical Coding School Before Enrolling
Find the best medical coding education for you! This info-packed episode reveals the top 15 questions you MUST ask any coding school or program before enrolling.
We dive into crucial details like coaching access, certification exam prep, teaching styles, manual markup techniques, course updates, and more. You'll learn red flags to watch out for and understand exactly how a top-notch coding c
5 Types of Popular Medical Coding Roles in Healthcare Original
Imagine expanding your medical coding career beyond just coding - this episode opens your eyes to 5 amazing new directions for medical coders! Learn about roles like Compliance Officer, Clinical Research Coordinator, Revenue Cycle Analyst, and more. We break down what each job entails, key skills needed, education/certification requirements, and how your coding background prepares you for suc
Can I Learn Medical Coding On My Own with Textbooks Only
Thinking of starting a career in medical coding? Get the insider scoop in this info-packed episode. We break down exactly what medical coding entails, the various code sets you need to learn, and what medical documentation experience you need to have.
You'll get pros and cons of different training options like online courses, community colleges, and self-study. We also share what to look for
Medical Coding Vaccinations - Pediatric vs Adult Original
Get the full video, transcripts, slide deck and more at https://www.cco.us/club/
In this episode of the CCO Club webinar series, we delve into the complex world of medical coding for vaccinations. With over 122 webinars under our belt, we continue to answer questions from our diverse club members, ranging from newcomers to coding veterans. Today, we explore a common query: the differences be
Neoplasm Table in Medical Coding
Get the full video, transcripts, slide deck and more at https://www.cco.us/club/
Join us for an insightful breakdown of the neoplasm table and accurate cancer coding. We'll explore the importance of statistical tracking, how to use the neoplasm table as a tool, and key details for achieving proper specificity. You'll learn critical aspects like the difference between primary, secondary, and
Medical Coding for Wound Debridement
Get the full video, transcripts, slide deck and more at https://www.cco.us/club/
Get ready to dive deep into wound debridement coding fundamentals in this information-packed episode! We'll start with an overview of what debridement is and why it's performed, including key goals like preventing infection and promoting healing. Next, we'll break down the various techniques - surgical, sharp, m
Table of Drugs & Chemicals in Medical Coding
Get the full video, transcripts, slide deck and more at https://www.cco.us/club/
Get ready to master using the table of drugs and chemicals for poisonings, adverse effects, and more! We'll start with an overview of what this supplemental tool is, when to use it, and how it makes coding more accurate. Next, we'll walk through a step-by-step example looking up a poisoning code.
You'll learn t
Medical Coding for Tobacco and Smoking
Get the full video, transcripts, slide deck and more at https://www.cco.us/club/
Get ready to master accurate coding for tobacco use, smoking, and related conditions! We’ll clarify the critical differences between exposure to tobacco smoke versus a history of dependence. You’ll learn how to code for remission, withdrawal, and associated disorders.
Expect examples illustrating how to code fo
MIPS Quality Measures
Get the full video, transcripts, slide deck and more at https://www.cco.us/club/
Get the inside scoop on MIPS - the Merit-Based Incentive Payment System - in this info-packed episode! We’ll explain what MIPS is, who’s required to participate, and how it impacts reimbursement. Learn the four performance categories: quality, cost, promoting interoperability, and improvement activities.
Expect
Medical Coding 99213 vs 99214
Get the full video, transcripts, slide deck and more at https://www.cco.us/club/
Get ready to master the nuances between 99213 and 99214 E/M codes! We’ll clarify the key differences between low and moderate medical decision making. You’ll learn how to evaluate complexity of problems, data reviewed, and risk to determine the right level.
Expect real-world examples straight from Coding Clinic
2024 SDOH ICD-10-CM Code Changes
Get the full video, transcripts, slide deck and more at https://www.cco.us/club/
Get the inside scoop on critical updates to ICD-10 social determinants of health codes for 2024! We’ll break down new and revised Z55-Z65 codes related to problems with upbringing, primary support group, and psychosocial circumstances.
Learn what’s changed in coding for issues like parent-child conflict, absenc
Early Release of 2024 CPT Codes
Get the full video, transcripts, slide deck and more at https://www.cco.us/club/
Get the inside scoop on the big changes coming in CPT for 2024! We’ll give you a sneak peek at the early release codes and updates for immunizations, Category III codes, PLA codes, and more.
Expect an in-depth look at the brand new Appendix for AI services - this is major! Learn about the taxonomy for classifyi
Understanding Vascular Anatomy in Medical Coding
Get the full video, transcripts, slide deck and more at https://www.cco.us/club/
Master medical coding for vascular conditions with this in-depth anatomy lesson! We’ll break down the key structures and functions of the circulatory system, including the heart, arteries, veins and blood components.
Learn the critical differences between arteries and veins, memorize major vessels, and understa
Medical Coding Congenital Heart Catheterizations
Get the full video, transcripts, slide deck and more at https://www.cco.us/club/
Get an in-depth look at coding for congenital heart catheterizations in this info-packed episode. We’ll clarify the critical code changes in recent years and explain when to use the 93453-93455 series versus the 93593-93597 series.
Learn step-by-step how right and left heart catheterizations are performed to ev
How Will AI and ChatGPT Impact Medical Coding
Get the full video, transcripts, slide deck and more at https://www.cco.us/club/
Will AI take over medical coding jobs? Get the inside scoop in this info-packed episode! We’ll demystify chatGPT and clarify what it can (and can’t) do for coders. Learn its pros and cons, including how it handles coding cases from our auditing course.
Expect a frank discussion of AI’s limitations with modifier
2023 Billing for Telehealth Encounters
Get the full video, transcripts, slide deck and more at https://www.cco.us/club/
Get up to speed on the latest telehealth billing guidelines in this info-packed episode. We’ll clarify changes since the end of the public health emergency and unpack critical details in the new 2023 Telehealth Billing Guide.
Expect real-world examples explaining originating site and distant site requirements,
Medical Coding for Hernia Repairs
Get the full video, transcripts, slide deck and more at https://www.cco.us/club/
Master coding for hernia repairs with this in-depth podcast episode! We’ll clarify the different types of hernias based on location and terminology for issues like incarceration. Learn how to pinpoint the right CPT codes based on factors like reducibility, initial vs recurrent, mesh use, and defect size.
Expect
Medical Decision Making with CPT Code 99214
Get the full video, transcripts, slide deck and more at https://www.cco.us/club/
Get ready to level up your E&M coding skills! Join us as we dive deep into CPT code 99214 - what it takes to reach this moderate level of medical decision making. We'll break down the key criteria step-by-step and provide real-world examples that make sense.
You'll get clarity on challenging concepts like "
Modifier 79 Usage and Examples in Medical Coding
Get the full video, transcripts, slide deck and more at https://www.cco.us/club/
Get ready to master modifier 79! In this info-packed CCO Club webinar, we dive into the proper use of this tricky modifier. You'll get real-world examples that clarify when 79 is appropriate, and when it's not. We'll also compare it to modifier 58 and 59 so you know exactly when to apply each one.
With step-by-
Breaking Down Angina Cardiomyopathy & Myocardial Infarction
Get the full video, transcripts, slide deck and more at https://www.cco.us/club/
Get your cardiology coding knowledge pumped up in this info-packed CCO student webinar replay. We'll breakdown must-know details on angina, cardiomyopathy, and myocardial infarctions. Learn the causes, symptoms, types, and ICD-10 code ranges for each condition.
With clear explanations and insider guidance, you'
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