Top 10 Questions for Death Surveys Coder Interview

1. Define the role of a Death Surveys Coder?

• Reviews and codes medical records and other documentation to determine the cause and manner of death.
• Assigns codes based on the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) and other coding systems.
• Ensures the accuracy and consistency of coded data.
• Collaborates with other healthcare professionals, such as physicians and nurses, to gather and interpret information.
• May provide training and support to other coders.

2. Explain the ICD-10 coding system and its importance in death surveys?

ICD-10 Coding System

• International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision (ICD-10)
• Comprehensive system for classifying diseases, injuries, and causes of death.
• Used by healthcare professionals worldwide.
• Provides a standardized language for describing and coding death events.

Importance in Death Surveys

• Ensures consistency and accuracy in reporting causes of death.
• Allows for comparison of data across different populations and time periods.
• Enables identification of trends and patterns in mortality.
• Supports research and policy development related to death and mortality.

3. Describe the process of coding a death certificate using ICD-10?

• Review the death certificate and other relevant documentation.
• Identify the underlying cause of death.
• Assign ICD-10 codes for the underlying cause of death and any contributing conditions.
• Verify the accuracy and validity of the codes using coding guidelines and manuals.
• Document the coding decisions and rationale.

4. How do you handle discrepancies or missing information on a death certificate?

• Contact the certifying physician or other healthcare professionals involved in the case.
• Consult medical records or other available sources to gather additional information.
• Use coding guidelines and manuals to resolve discrepancies.
• Assign codes that are most accurate and consistent with the available information.
• Document the discrepancies and the steps taken to address them.

5. What are the ethical considerations involved in death surveys coding?

• Maintaining confidentiality and privacy of patient information.
• Ensuring accuracy and objectivity in coding.
• Avoiding bias or discrimination based on personal beliefs or characteristics.
• Respecting the wishes of the deceased and their family.
• Adhering to professional ethical guidelines and standards.

6. How do you stay up-to-date on changes to coding systems and guidelines?

• Attend training and workshops.
• Read industry publications and online resources.
• Join professional organizations and participate in online forums.
• Review official updates and guidance from coding agencies.
• Collaborate with colleagues and seek feedback to stay informed.

7. What is the difference between cause of death and manner of death?

• Cause of Death: The underlying medical condition or injury that led to the death.


• Manner of Death: The circumstances surrounding the death, such as accident, suicide, or homicide.

8. How do you code for deaths involving multiple causes?

• Identify the underlying cause of death.
• Assign codes for the underlying cause and any contributing conditions.
• Use the appropriate coding rules to sequence the codes.
• Document the rationale for the coding decisions.

9. Explain the use of E-codes in ICD-10 coding?

• External cause codes used to identify external factors contributing to a death.
• Used to capture information about accidents, injuries, and other events.
• Assigned in addition to the codes for the underlying cause of death.
• Provide valuable information for public health surveillance and injury prevention.

10. Describe the role of technology in death surveys coding?

• Coding Software: Automates the coding process and reduces errors.
• Electronic Health Records (EHRs): Provide access to patient data for more accurate coding.
• Data Analytics: Helps identify trends and patterns in mortality data.
• Artificial Intelligence (AI): Assists in coding and identifying potential errors.
• Virtual Collaboration: Facilitates remote communication and collaboration among coders.

Death Survey Coders are responsible for assigning codes to underlying causes of death on medical certificates and reports, gathering and reviewing medical records to select the appropriate codes, and classifying causes of death using an established system.

1. Coding Underlying Causes of Death

Coders must decipher medical terminology and extract the most detailed underlying cause of death from often complex and incomplete medical documents.

• Analyze medical records, including charts, test results, and autopsy reports, to determine the underlying cause of death.
• Assign codes based on the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD-10) and other relevant coding systems.

2. Data Validation and Review

Death Survey Coders ensure the accuracy and completeness of the data they code. They perform quality control checks and rectify any errors or inconsistencies.

• Review coded data for accuracy and consistency against established guidelines and standards.
• Resolve discrepancies and inconsistencies in medical records and coding.

3. Communication and Collaboration

Coders may work with other medical professionals, such as physicians and nurses, to clarify medical information and ensure correct coding.

• Communicate with physicians and other healthcare providers to obtain additional information or clarification on medical records.
• Document all communication and decisions made regarding coding.

4. Regulatory Compliance

Death Survey Coders are required to adhere to strict coding standards and regulations to ensure the integrity of death statistics.

• Follow established coding guidelines and regulations, such as the ICD-10, to ensure accurate data reporting.
• Stay up-to-date on changes in coding systems and regulations.

Preparing thoroughly for the interview is crucial. Here are some tips to help you ace the Death Surveys Coder interview:

1. Research the Company and Position

Take the time to research the company and the specific role you are applying for.

• Visit the company’s website and read about their mission, values, and recent initiatives.
• Review the job description carefully and highlight the skills and experience you possess that align with the requirements.

2. Practice Answering Common Interview Questions

Anticipate common interview questions and prepare thoughtful responses that showcase your qualifications.

• “Tell me about yourself and why you’re interested in this role?”
• “What experience do you have in death surveys coding?”
• “How do you approach the coding of complex medical records?”

3. Highlight Your Skills and Experience

Emphasize your relevant skills and experiences that make you a suitable candidate.

• Quantify your accomplishments whenever possible, using specific metrics to demonstrate your impact.
• Provide examples of your ability to analyze complex medical records and extract the underlying cause of death.

4. Be Aware of Industry Trends and Regulations

Show your knowledge of the death surveys coding industry and its regulations.

• Discuss your understanding of the ICD-10 coding system and any recent changes or updates.
• Explain your awareness of data privacy and confidentiality regulations related to death records.

5. Ask Questions

Asking thoughtful questions at the end of the interview demonstrates your interest and engagement.

• Ask about the company’s ongoing projects and initiatives.
• Inquire about the team structure and the role’s reporting relationships.