Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about HCC Buddy. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Contact us.
Getting Started
What is HCC Buddy?+
HCC Buddy is an ICD-10-CM encoder with built-in HCC category mappings, NPI provider lookup, drug-to-diagnosis reference, AI coding assistant, and more. It’s available as a Chrome extension and at hccbuddy.com.
Is HCC Buddy free to try?+
Yes. Every new account starts with a 14-day Pro trial — full unlimited access, no credit card required. After the trial, you move to the Starter tier with 3 lookups per day, or subscribe to Pro at $29.99/month or $299/year for unlimited access.
How do I install the Chrome extension?+
Visit the Chrome Web Store, search “HCC Buddy”, and click “Add to Chrome.” The extension opens as a side panel right inside your browser.
Pricing & Billing
What’s included in the Starter tier?+
After your 14-day Pro trial ends, the Starter tier includes 3 ICD-10 code lookups per day, HCC category mapping display, and basic search. Upgrade to Pro anytime for unlimited access.
Can I cancel anytime?+
Yes. You can cancel your subscription at any time. Your access continues through the end of your current billing period. No refunds are provided for partial periods.
Is there an annual discount?+
Yes. The annual plan is $299/year, which saves you $60 compared to paying $29.99/month.
What is founding member pricing?+
Early supporters who subscribed during our launch period are locked in at $19.99/month for life, as long as their subscription stays active.
Privacy & Security
Does HCC Buddy store patient data?+
No. HCC Buddy does not collect, store, or transmit any Protected Health Information (PHI). See our security page for architecture details.
Is HCC Buddy HIPAA compliant?+
HCC Buddy is not a HIPAA covered entity. It is designed with a HIPAA-conscious architecture that actively prevents PHI from entering our systems. No Business Associate Agreement is needed because no PHI is processed.
What data do you collect?+
We collect your email address, a hashed password, and basic usage counts. We do not collect browsing history, patient data, or any Protected Health Information. See our privacy policy for full details.
Who can see my searches?+
Only you. Your searches are not shared, sold, or used for advertising.
Product & Features
What ICD-10 code sets are supported?+
HCC Buddy includes ICD-10-CM codes from fiscal years 2016 through 2026, updated annually with CMS releases.
Does HCC Buddy work offline?+
The Chrome extension caches some data locally, but most features require an internet connection for full functionality.
Can I upload my payer’s guidelines?+
Yes. Pro subscribers can upload PDF guidelines for AI-powered search and reference within the guidelines library.
What HCC models are supported?+
HCC Buddy supports V28 (current CMS-HCC), V24 (legacy), ESRD, and RxHCC models.