What is a CRC coder?

CRC coders, or Certified Risk Adjustment Coders, are professionals who specialize in reviewing and assigning medical codes to patient diagnoses and procedures for risk adjustment purposes. Their primary role is to ensure that healthcare providers receive appropriate compensation based on the complexity and severity of their patient populations. They work with medical records to accurately capture all relevant health conditions, which is critical for healthcare organizations participating in risk-adjusted payment models. CRC coders must be knowledgeable in ICD-10-CM coding and maintain compliance with regulations and payer requirements.