Question 1

Is there a free HCC encoder?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The HCC Buddy ICD-10-CM encoder is free to start with three code lookups per day, no card required. Each lookup shows CMS-HCC V28 and V24 mapping, RAF weight, billable status, and MEAT guidance. HCC Buddy never stores, logs, or transmits PHI.

Question 2

What is the best HCC coder tool for risk adjustment?

Accepted Answer

A good HCC coder tool maps ICD-10-CM diagnosis codes to the current CMS-HCC model, shows RAF impact, and surfaces MEAT documentation requirements. The HCC Buddy encoder does this for FY2026 ICD-10-CM and CMS-HCC V28, with V24, ESRD, and RxHCC categories, plus drug and NPI lookups and Ask Buddy.

Question 3

Does the free HCC encoder include RAF weights and V28 status?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every lookup in the free HCC encoder shows the HCC category, RAF coefficient, and V28 status before you close the chart, plus Excludes notes and clinical details.

Question 4

Is the HCC Buddy encoder a Codify alternative?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Coders use the HCC Buddy encoder as a Codify alternative: it maps ICD-10-CM codes to CMS-HCC V28 and V24, shows RAF weights and MEAT guidance, and works inside the EMR via a Chrome extension. Founding access is $19.99 per month, then $29.99, with a free anonymous demo first.

ICD-10 to HCC Mapping Search

Common HCC-Mapped ICD-10 Codes

What does the HCC Buddy ICD-10 encoder do?

ICD-10 to HCC Mapping Search

Common HCC-Mapped ICD-10 Codes