Which is a professional association that was founded to elevate the standards of medical coding?

The AAPC, or American Academy of Professional Coders, was specifically established to elevate the standards of medical coding and billing. Founded in 1988, AAPC focuses on providing education, certification, and training for professionals in the field of medical coding. Through its certifications, such as the Certified Professional Coder (CPC), AAPC sets quality standards in medical coding practices. The organization plays a crucial role in ensuring coders are well-prepared to accurately translate healthcare services into universally recognized codes, which is essential for proper reimbursement and compliance within the healthcare billing system.

In contrast, the other organizations mentioned have different primary functions: the AMA (American Medical Association) focuses on promoting the art and science of medicine, DHHS (Department of Health and Human Services) oversees national health policies, and CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) administers the nation’s major healthcare programs. While these organizations contribute significantly to healthcare, it is AAPC that is primarily dedicated to the education and advancement of medical coding specifically.