Fordney's Medical Insurance and Billing

Fordney's Medical Insurance and Billing, 17th Edition, written by Linda M. Smith, is a handbook that prepares students and insurance billing specialists for daily administrative and clinical coding responsibilities. Published by Saunders, this 592-page work examines diagnostic coding, procedural coding, and HCPCS coding principles while connecting each concept to medical documentation standards.

The volume offers step-by-step instructions to assist with filing electronic claims and paper claims across diverse payer models. Content ranges from private coverage, Blue Plans, and managed care to Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE, workers' compensation, and disability income programs. In addition, the text covers billing and collection practices, payment receipt routines, and administrative problem-solving methods.

Beyond claim processing, the handbook addresses key operational regulations such as HIPAA privacy, security standards, and compliance regarding fraud and abuse. It concludes with dedicated content on job search strategies and professional advancement for billing specialists navigating careers in healthcare facilities or ambulatory surgery centers.