Certified Outpatient Coder (COC) Exam 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The Charge Description Master (CDM) is a comprehensive file used by healthcare facilities that serves as a centralized repository for all the billable items and services provided by the institution. This document includes not only the procedures and services but also covers devices, pharmaceuticals, and supplies.

The CDM plays a crucial role in healthcare billing and revenue cycle management, as it ensures accurate charge capture for services rendered. Each item in the CDM is assigned a unique charge code, which is essential for billing claims to insurance companies and ensuring that healthcare providers are reimbursed appropriately for their services.

The other options, while related to the management of healthcare services, do not encapsulate the full scope of a CDM. An Items Catalog typically refers to products available for use but lacks the specific detailing of services rendered. A Service Directory might outline available services but does not necessarily include pricing information. A Coding File, on the other hand, is usually focused on the coding aspects of medical diagnoses and procedures rather than the entirety of billable items.