Whereas , Certified medical coders regularly communicate with physicians and other health care professionals to clarify diagnoses or to obtain additional information in the assignment of alpha-numeric codes; and,

Whereas , Certified medical coders stand as the front line against potential Medicare fraud and abuse while ensuring that the physicians, hospitals and clinics receive the fairest compensation for services; and,

Whereas , Certified medical coders are knowledgeable in medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, and the code sets necessary to serve effectively in their professional role within the health care community; and,

Whereas , Employment of professional medical coders is expected to grow due to the increasing number of medical tests, treatments and procedures and the consequent responsibility to provide the best quality health care in a market-driven economy; and now therefore be it,

Resolved , That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim October 9, 2008, as Certified Professional Medical Coders Day.