AAPC Conference Preview

2012 AAPC National Conference
By Melanie Mestas

Medical coding and billing has come a long way over the past 20-plus years and is currently one of the most vital pieces to a smooth-running medical facility. AAPC, which will hold its 20th national conference from April 1 to 4 at the Rio Hotel and Convention Center in Las Vegas, has helped expand the industry since its inception and is always looking to push the industry into the future with hot topics such as ICD-10.

The annual conference addresses the “hot button” issues in our arenas as well as reviews the concepts that are basic to the industry. This year, the lineup includes more physician presenters than ever before as well as a host of business and industry professionals who are experts in their field.

Conference attendees begin the festivities with the annual AAPC president’s address with Chairman and CEO Reed Pew. Following the president’s address is the keynote presentation “Got Magic.” After the two general sessions conclude to open the conference on Monday, each attendee heads to his or her specific breakout sessions for three days filled with education, networking, and fun. Each day holds incredible information and learning opportunities in many areas of healthcare. The AAPC conference website (www.aapc.com/medical-coding-education/conferences/national/lasvegas/index.aspx) has the entire speaking agenda and activities for the week.

With the implementation of ICD-10 just around the corner, the conference’s signature session, the Anatomy Expo, has never been more valuable. In this three-hour session, attendees will gather to celebrate the wonders of the human body. This fast-paced event offers an in-depth look into this complex machine. Here, participants have a chance to learn the various parts of human anatomy, taught exclusively by physicians to small groups. The eight physician presenters will use anatomical models, devices, and videos to provide instruction as each group moves from station to station. Attendees will get from an insider’s look at the anatomic and physiologic nuances of the human body. Whether attendees are novices or experts, the Anatomy Expo is fun, informative, and always a highlight for conference goers.

For the first time, there also will be a track of sessions focused on EMRs and revenue cycle management, a track of sessions on auditing and compliance issues, and a full track focused on outpatient hospital facility coding. As always, AAPC offers a wide variety of sessions dedicated to different coding specialties and general healthcare issues.

— Melanie Mestas is director of conferences for AAPC.