For many, part of the appeal of pursuing education for a career in medical billing and coding is being a part of the healthcare team without clinical duties or high levels of direct patient contact. But don’t for a moment think that makes the job of a medical biller and coder lack humor. In fact, they probably get just as many laughs as anyone, maybe more. Although looking through ICD-10 diagnoses, which recently replaced ICD-9, may not sound laugh-worthy, to the trained eye, there is plenty to entertain!
There are a variety of codes that are memorized by medical billers because they are so frequently used. However, some people seem to have a knack for getting injured in some very unique ways. Even though these codes aren’t commonly used (we hope!), they still have to exist for when the situation arises.
Enjoy 12 such codes that got us laughing and are sure to get a chuckle from a medical biller you know! We sincerely hope that none of these things happen to you – be careful out there!
1. V97.33XD: Sucked into jet engine, subsequent encounter
Not only did the patient get sucked into a jet engine and survive it (how?!), but then they only survived to get sucked into an engine for a SECOND time. We’re really not sure how that happened, but maybe it’s time to steer clear of jet engines?
*So, we discovered that this actually means that this is their second encounter with a doctor for this event, but it’s a little less dramatic than their second terrifying experience with a jet engine’s insides.
2. W55.42XA: Struck by pig, initial encounter
Apparently pigs aren’t always cuddly and gentle. In fact, they may be surprisingly volatile, especially if you get in their way. So, to avoid being struck by a pig the initial time, much less any additional times, bring snacks and just try to stay out of their way.
*Big Major Cay, an island in the Bahamas, has a group of swimming pigs that will come right out to boats. So, when on vacation in the islands, be careful in the water.
3. V00.01XA: Pedestrian on foot injured in collision with roller-skater, initial encounter
Now this is one that we could actually see happening. Picture it – you’re on your phone, checking status updates, and you hear someone coming. You look up just too late and BAM!, you get nailed by a rogue roller skater who laughs and keeps going.
*Do people still go roller skating?
4. W22.01XA: Walked into wall, initial encounter
Okay, now this one has happened to all of us. Mornings can be tough, and doors can sometimes be hard to find. Just do us a favor and watch where you’re going!
*How many of these people were texting and walking? It’s dangerous!
[clear]
5. Y92.252: Hurt at the Opera
We really want to know exactly how many people have had to use this code. Also, *how* were they hurt at the opera? Was it inner ear damage? Or did they trip and fall down the stairs?
*Honestly, we think it was probably those monocles. They look dangerous.
[clear]
6. Y93.D1: Accident while knitting or crocheting
Those giant needles seem dangerous! Or maybe it was just severe finger cramps? We also feel obligated to say that driving while knitting or crocheting is *never* a good idea and would likely lead to this code being used. It’s just *knot* a good idea!
*See what we did there?
[clear]
7. V91.07XA: Burn due to water skis on fire, initial encounter
We’re not sure who the person was that required the creation of this code, but we would love to meet them. Check out this video of someone attempting this.
*Do NOT try this at home… or anywhere else. Please.
8. V95.43: Spacecraft collision injuring occupant
Does this only apply to human occupants?
*NASA astronauts need medical care too!
[clear]
9. R46.1: Bizarre personal appearance
Hopefully no one tells the patient what this code actually means. Also, who is the person tasked with determining the appropriateness of using this code?
*Be careful about using this in case the recipient knows what it means!
[clear]
10. W59.22XA: Struck by turtle
Turtles are used as the icon for slow-movers. How does this happen? Really, just how?
*After some research, we discovered that turtles can be tricky.
11.Y93.D: Activities involved arts and handcrafts
Every one of us that have used a glue gun or a needle and thread know that this is a real threat. Ever think about the fact that many arts and crafts tools wouldn’t be allowed on a plane? Or about the fact that we are forever trying to teach our kids how to appropriately walk with scissors?
*But really, do be careful walking with scissors.
[clear]
12. Z99.89: Dependence on enabling machines and devices, not elsewhere classified
*Just be careful walking and texting, you don’t want to have one of previously mentioned codes describe you! Think V00.01XA or W22.01XA.
[clear]
We know that this is not all of the hilariously specific and odd incidents that could be logged by a medical biller or coder, but these are definitely some of our favorites! Are you interested in pursuing a career in medical billing and coding? Check out our Medical Insurance Billing and Office Administration program to see if it’s right for you!