I've started looking into ordering the 2014 ICD-10-CM and ICD-10-PCS books. Does anyone have a preference to what company you tend to like when it comes to your coding books? Specifically, I've looked at AMA, AAPC, AHIMA, and OPTUM brand and I'm wondering is there really a difference other than the prices? Any insight would be greatly appreciated!
The difference in the books is the quality of information and ease of learning. If you are going to take the ICD-10-CM/PCS Transition class (check with Glenda for details) then you would need the following books.
OPTUM ICD-10-CM/PCS Official Draft Code Set
AHIMA ICD-10-CM Coder Training Manual (DeVault, Barta, Endicott)
AHIMA ICD-10-PCS Coder Training Manual (Barta, DeVault, Endicott)
Thanks Debby! I contacted Glenda prior to asking so I knew which books I would need but still do not know on which brand is better than the other because I have only ever seen and used the books the school issued me and the prices vary between them all. I am an AHIMA and AAPC member and can order each ones books at a discount but wanted some insight before I take the plunge or stick to OPTUM books. Does OPTUM seem to be better then the others in your opinion?
In my opinion OPTUM publishes the best code books. The codes are accurate and the notes are written in color so they are easy to spot. The icons listed at the bottom of each page and the diagrams are very helpful. In most facilities these are the code books of choice.
I feel that in order to do the best job possible you need the best tools that are available.