Which statement best describes the role of documentation in HCC coding?

• A. It is optional.
• B. It is the starting point for accurate coding.
• C. It is used only for billing.
• D. It is unnecessary if codes are known.

Answer: (B)

The starting point for accurate HCC coding is thorough, clear documentation of the patient’s diagnoses, their severity, and chronic conditions. The entire set of codes and risk-adjustment categories is derived from what is documented and supported in the medical record, so without detailed documentation you can’t justify the correct HCCs. Documentation isn’t optional and it isn’t just for billing; it provides the evidence that coding uses to reflect the patient’s risk and care needs. Even if you think you know the codes, you must have documentation to justify them and to capture any additional conditions that influence the risk score.