Any ideas where I can get free medical coding books, aside from the textbook that came w/ my classes?
Okay, so I’m taking night classes to be a medical coder. However, our instructor did not include the actual coding books in the curriculum to try and save us money. Now we have the problem of the websites she thought were free are not allowing us free rein to search for the answers needed for class. I need both CPT and ICD-9, and there is no way I can afford to purchase them now, even at a discount bookstore, because I am getting tuition assistance for the classes and my fiance and I don’t have any money(and I mean none, we have 225 dollars to pay our 450 rent, and even paying our utilities right now is a pipe dream in the distance, no chance of it happening any time soon). I’ve tried calling around to doctor‘s offices as well, hoping they might have last year’s versions I could get or borrow for free, but that’s a no go as well, most of them farm out their billing needs in our area. I’ve checked Craigslist and that’s a no go as well. Any other suggestions? Our library doesn’t stock them. Thanks!
I know it’s a worthwhile career track, that’s why I’m doing it. Not interested in the google scam, thanks anyways….
Lol, I’d love to ask my school, but it’s a vo-tech type of school and doesn’t have a library at all 
Thanks for the answer though!
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3 Responses to “Any ideas where I can get free medical coding books, aside from the textbook that came w/ my classes?”
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May 8th, 2010 at 8:07 am
You can try asking in your school library if they have any additional copies for you to borrow. My school had some just in case someone forgot their book or just needed one temporary. Another thing you can try doing is asking a former medical biller if there is any way you can borrow their books. If you know of anyone who just took the class they may be willing to help you by borrowing them.
Last but not least, you can always ask the school if they can order one for you and add it to your check. Once you get money you can pay for it and it is in part the school/teachers fault.
If all else fails you can try half.com where they will sell the books (at least for cheaper than regular stores)
I think you should try asking around with former students.The clinics usually keep at least the previous years copy for reference.
Good luck in your class….
May 8th, 2010 at 8:56 am
I may be able to find you some. I am a medical biller and coder. We may have some left over from last year! Give me a day and I will get back to you!
May 8th, 2010 at 9:27 am
how about people at a hospital or doctor’s office? they get updated versions and they may have some extra from years past