SP7.10 - Awareness and Knowledge of Medical Coding Education Amongst Vascular Surgeons: A National Survey

Abstract Aims Accurate medical coding plays a critical role in optimising healthcare delivery, facilitating appropriate reimbursement, supporting research and data analysis, and providing a foundation for public healthcare databases and policies. This survey aims to explore the familiarity and comprehension of medical coding among vascular surgeons. Methods Ninety-five responses were gathered from participants across diverse levels of vascular surgery. A notable 77.7% (n=73) of respondents indicated a lack of formal training in medical coding. Additionally, 70.5% (n=67) of vascular surgeons advocated for including medical coding within surgical training programs. Regarding assessing medical coding proficiency, 61.1% (n=55) correctly identified ‘BSS’ as an example of non-medical coding classification. Moreover, 67.7% (n=63) accurately recognised ‘OPCS-4’ as the classification system employed by the NHS for coding surgical procedures. Results Ninety-five questionnaire responses were collected from participants working in vascular surgery of various levels. A notable 77.7% (n=73) of the participants reported receiving no formal training in medical coding. Additionally, 70.5% (n=67) of vascular surgeons expressed that medical coding should be included in surgical training. Regarding assessing medical coding knowledge, 61.1% (n=55) of respondents correctly identified ‘BSS’ as the non-example of medical coding classification. When asked about the classification system used by the NHS to code surgical procedures, 67.7% (n=63) correctly identified ‘OPCS-4.’ Conclusion The study's findings reveal the need for more awareness, knowledge, and formal training in medical coding. Augmented education and training in medical coding, potentially through concise courses, are imperative for ensuring equitable reimbursement for healthcare services, facilitating data analysis for research and quality enhancement endeavours, and fostering effective inter-professional communication within the healthcare domain.