Which document primarily contains guidelines for compliant coding?

The document that primarily contains guidelines for compliant coding is the Pub 100 References. This publication serves as an essential resource for coders and healthcare providers, offering detailed instructions on the use of the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) Level II, including coding rules, payment policies, and other regulations that govern compliant coding practices.

By providing essential guidance on coding procedures, the Pub 100 References assists healthcare professionals in ensuring that they code correctly, which is crucial for accurate billing, reducing the risk of audits, and maintaining compliance with Medicare and Medicaid regulations. This resource is particularly valuable in understanding the nuances of coding, the relationship between codes and the services rendered, and the requirements that must be met for claims to be processed correctly.

In contrast, other options like the Provider Handbook and Clinical Practice Guidelines focus on different aspects of healthcare delivery and management, rather than explicitly on coding compliance. While these documents may provide helpful information regarding service delivery or clinical practices, they do not serve as the primary go-to for coding guidelines. The Healthcare Management Manual, while relevant to operational policies within healthcare settings, also does not focus solely on coding compliance as the Pub 100 does. Therefore, the Pub 100 References are positioned as the authoritative source for compliant coding guidelines