Medical Coding

Overview

Medical coders perform one of the most important tasks in the healthcare office. Coders read and analyze medical charts, determine patient diagnoses, verify if procedures were performed, and then categorize the information according to a national classification system. This in-depth certificate includes instruction in medical office skills and HIPAA regulations.

The Medical Coding certificate prepares students to work with healthcare organizations that provide treatment and services to patients. It teaches students how to use the CPT, HCPCS, and ICD-10 CM code books. Basic coding involves selecting codes when the procedure is straightforward and clearly defined and when the diagnosis is known. Instruction in basic coding includes locating codes, selecting the most appropriate codes, and performing some billing calculations. This certificate also prepares students to take the CPC exam to become nationally certified coders. Students must pass all classes within this certificate with a C+.  The program content also provides the student with basic medical office skills, including HIPAA regulations, health information management, and patient scheduling.  The certificate prepares students to work with hospitals, clinics, and health insurance companies to organize and maintain data, review patient records, track patient outcomes, and electronically record data with great accuracy, which is key to optimal reimbursement.

The certificate program allows students to transfer credits into the Associate of Science degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with an Area of Concentration in Medical Coding.

Medical Coding Certificate

Program Outcomes

Upon successful completion of all program requirements, graduates will be able to:

• Demonstrate the ability to successfully process medical insurance claims.
• Demonstrate the ability to analyze all medical reports to properly identify all procedures and diagnoses.
• Demonstrate accurate coding of procedures and diagnoses utilizing resources such as, CPT-4, ICD-10-CM, and HCPCS.
• Demonstrate coding skills by qualifying to take the Certificated Professional Coding exam through the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC).
• Use written and oral communication methods effectively to collect or send needed information.
• Appreciate diversity, differing beliefs, value systems, and individual opinions.

Expected student outcomes include:

1. Use the CPT, HCPCS and ICD-10 CM code books to select the appropriate codes.
2. Have an understanding of basic billing issues.
3. Differentiate between procedure codes and diagnosis codes.
4. Demonstrate knowledge of adequate medical terminology to select correct codes.
5. Successfully code procedures and encounter forms presented in class.
6. Perform basic administrative duties.