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 current CY2026 V28 mapping status for non-PACE Medicare Advantage, a separate historical PY2025 V24 reference, billable status, MEAT guidance, and CMS-HCC V28 PY2026 calculator.

Question 2

What is the best HCC coder tool for risk adjustment?

Accepted Answer

A good HCC coder tool shows mapping status for the current CMS-HCC model, keeps historical mappings clearly labeled, and surfaces MEAT guidance. HCC Buddy shows current FY2026 ICD-10-CM and CY2026 V28 mapping, while historical PY2025 V24 stays reference-only. The RAF Calculator supports CMS-HCC V28 PY2026 with complete member context and shows no score unless every source and calculation check passes.

Question 3

What is the RAF status in the free HCC encoder?

Accepted Answer

Every lookup shows the HCC category and V28 mapping status. Reference coefficients, when shown, use the official member segment labels: CNA (Community Non-Dual Aged), CND (Community Non-Dual Disabled), CFA (Community Full Benefit Dual Aged), CFD (Community Full Benefit Dual Disabled), CPA (Community Partial Benefit Dual Aged), CPD (Community Partial Benefit Dual Disabled), and INS (Institutional). A code-level coefficient is not a member score. The RAF Calculator applies hierarchy, cleanup, interactions, and complete member context for CMS-HCC V28 PY2026, then withholds the score if a required check does not pass.

Question 4

Is the HCC Buddy encoder a Codify alternative?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Coders use HCC Buddy to check current CY2026 V28 mapping status, review a separate historical PY2025 V24 reference and MEAT guidance, and work inside the EMR with 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