Maria Teresita B Picardal
Canoga Park,CA
Summary
Dynamic Inpatient Coder with expertise in ICD-10-CM coding and a proven track record at Alhambra Hospital Medical Center. Enhanced coding accuracy through collaboration with clinical teams and implemented process improvements, resulting in a significant reduction in errors. Strong attention to detail and commitment to compliance ensure high-quality patient documentation.
Healthcare professional prepared for this role with comprehensive knowledge in medical coding and compliance. Known for accurately coding inpatient records and maintaining adherence to regulatory guidelines. Collaborative team player focused on achieving results and adapting to changing needs. Expertise in medical terminology and ICD-10-CM coding.
Overview
36
36
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Inpatient Coder
Alhambra Hospital Medical Center
Alhambra, CA
09.2005 - 09.2025
- Reviewed and analyzed inpatient medical records for accurate coding and compliance with regulations.
- Collaborated with healthcare providers to clarify documentation and improve coding accuracy.
- Implemented best practices in coding processes to enhance efficiency and reduce errors.
- Developed comprehensive reports on coding trends to inform decision-making and process improvements.
- Audited coded records to ensure adherence to internal policies and external regulations.
- Collaborated closely with clinical documentation specialists to identify opportunities for improved documentation that would lead to more accurate coding outcomes.
- Demonstrated expertise in various code sets including CPT, HCPCS Level II, ICD-10-CM/PCS codes while maintaining certification as an Inpatient Coder.
- Streamlined workflow processes by collaborating with other coders, physicians, and healthcare professionals to ensure accurate documentation.
- Strengthened relationships between coders and clinical staff through regular engagement meetings, fostering a collaborative approach to patient care documentation.
- Upheld ethical standards in all aspects of work responsibilities through strict adherence to AHIMA Code of Ethics and professional practice guidelines.
- Resourcefully used various coding books, procedure manuals, and on-line encoders.
ROI
Alhambra Hospital Medical Center
Alhambra, CA
09.1989 - 09.2005
- Processed requests for medical records and information with attention to confidentiality and compliance standards.
- Collaborated with healthcare staff to clarify information requests and resolve discrepancies efficiently.
- Trained new team members on release of information procedures and best practices for data management.
- Conducted regular audits of released information to maintain compliance with HIPAA regulations and organizational policies.
- Implemented improvements in workflow processes to enhance efficiency in handling requests for patient records.
- Ensured compliance with HIPAA regulations and privacy policies through meticulous attention to detail when releasing sensitive patient information.
- Supported accurate billing practices by verifying requestors information and ensuring appropriate fees were charged for services rendered.
- Assisted in reducing turnaround time for record requests by efficiently prioritizing tasks and managing workload effectively.
- Improved efficiency in the release of information process by streamlining workflows and documentation procedures.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by providing prompt, accurate, and secure access to medical records for authorized individuals.
Education
Associate of Arts - Health Information Management
Santa Barbara City College
Santa Barbara, CA09-2005
Bachelor of Science - Foods And Nutrition
University of Santo Tomas
Manila, Philippines04-1981
Skills
- ICD-10-cM coding
- Medical record review
- Procedural coding
- Diagnostic coding
Certification
- CCS - Certified Coding Specialist
- RHIT - Registered Health Information Technician
Languages
English
Professional Working
Tagalog
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Inpatient Coder
Alhambra Hospital Medical Center
09.2005 - 09.2025
ROI
Alhambra Hospital Medical Center
09.1989 - 09.2005
Associate of Arts - Health Information Management
Santa Barbara City College
Bachelor of Science - Foods And Nutrition
University of Santo Tomas