The field of medical coding has long been regarded as a critical component of healthcare, ensuring that patient data is accurately recorded and categorized. Anyone who sits in the coder role often wonders if they are really valued and often struggles to communicate what it is they bring to the table besides an account that’s been coded. However, with the ever-advancing landscape of technology, healthcare regulations, and the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI), the competencies required of medical coders are undergoing a transformation.

This is the time for all coders to take a hard look at their individual competencies and contributions to their employer. In this article, we explore the changing landscape of competencies for medical coders, comparing the requirements of today to those of the future. Some of you will be put off by thinking I need to learn more things, but I say look at this as a challenge and an investment in not only your future, but that of the entire healthcare industry that needs your skillset.

Today's Soft Skills Competencies:

1. Problem Solving and Critical Thinking: Today's medical coders need to be adept problem solvers and critical thinkers. They must decode complex medical records, identifying relevant information and assigning accurate codes.
2. Written and Verbal Communication: Effective communication is vital. Coders must interact with healthcare providers, colleagues, and other stakeholders, clarifying coding decisions or resolving discrepancies.
3. Attention to Detail: Precision is key in medical coding. Coders are responsible for assigning the correct codes, which demand meticulous attention to detail.
4. Ethical Judgment: Coders must adhere to ethical coding practices and healthcare regulations, ensuring the confidentiality and integrity of patient data.
5. Time Management: Meeting deadlines and handling high volumes of medical records requires strong time management skills.
6. Continuous Learning: Coders must remain updated with evolving coding guidelines, regulations, and healthcare practices.
7. Professionalism: Handling sensitive patient information requires a high level of professionalism and ethical conduct.
8. Adaptability: Coders should adapt to new coding systems, technologies, and regulations that shape the healthcare industry.

Today's Technical Skills Competencies:

1. Knowledge of Regulatory and Compliance Guidelines: Staying compliant with healthcare regulations is crucial to ensure data integrity and patient privacy.
2. Coding and Classification Systems: Proficiency in coding systems, such as ICD-10-CM and ICD-10-PCS, is essential.
3. Medical Terminology: A strong grasp of medical terminology is needed for accurate code assignment.
4. Anatomy and Physiology: Understanding the human body's structure and function aids in code assignment.
5. Disease Processes and Pharmacology: Knowledge of diseases and medications is vital for accurate code assignment.
6. EHR Systems and Encoder Software: Familiarity with electronic health record systems and encoder software is essential in modern healthcare settings. 

Future Soft Skills Competencies:

1. Problem Solving and Critical Thinking: In the future, medical coders will need to enhance their problem-solving and critical thinking skills as they work alongside AI systems that automate routine coding tasks.
2. Verbal Communication: Effective verbal communication will be increasingly important as coders collaborate with AI developers and healthcare providers.
3. Ethical Judgment: Coders must continue to uphold ethical coding practices, ensuring AI is used responsibly and ethically in healthcare.
4. Continuous Learning: Lifelong learning is a constant in the evolving healthcare field. Coders must keep up with AI technology and the latest coding advancements.

 Future Technical Skills Competencies:

1. Computer Proficiency: Coders will need to develop strong computer skills as they interact with AI systems and digital records.
2. Auditing Skills: Some roles may involve conducting coding audits to ensure accuracy and compliance.
3. Technical Troubleshooting: The ability to troubleshoot technical issues related to AI and coding systems will be important.
4. AI and Automation Tool Knowledge: Coders will work alongside AI systems and need a deep understanding of how these tools operate.
5. Quality Assurance Skills: Ensuring the accuracy and quality of AI-generated codes will become a core responsibility for medical coders.
6. Analytical Thinking: The ability to analyze complex medical data and make data-driven decisions will become essential in a world driven by AI and data analytics.
7. Statistics: Understanding statistical concepts will enable coders to interpret healthcare data effectively and identify trends and patterns.

In conclusion, the role of medical coders is evolving in response to the integration of AI and advanced technologies. While the soft skills of problem solving, critical thinking, verbal communication, ethical judgment, and continuous learning will become increasingly vital, the technical skills related to coding, terminology, anatomy, and compliance remain foundational. Individuals with a medical coding background in the future will serve as guardians of ethical and accurate coding, working in harmony with AI to ensure the highest standards of healthcare data integrity and patient care. As the healthcare industry embraces AI, it is the adaptability and upskilling of medical coders that will drive the future of this critical profession. I personally want to encourage anyone working in the coding space today to accept this challenge to make a difference for the entire healthcare industry.