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Non-Credit Courses and Certificates

Medical Billing and Coding Specialist

Ideal for

The medical coding and billing specialist is an analytic, organized, efficient professional who plays an integral role in the health care team. He or she is responsible for:

  • analyzing medical records and assigning codes to diagnoses and procedures
  • organizing records to be used for patient billing, insurance claims and account management
  • tabulating information for health care surveys, research studies and improved patient care
  • communicating with other health care personnel to clarify diagnosis or obtain additional information.

Students should have basic basic computer skills and the program is entirely online and can be accessed through either a PC or Mac® device.

Program Overview

**THIS COURSE IS NOT BEING OFFERED AT THIS TIME**

The medical coding and billing specialist program is offered as an online course only and enrollment is rolling. Students are able to begin the program at any time during the calendar year. Students will enroll for the program, make payments online, and receive their textbooks through the mail for the course. The program is meant to accommodate your personal schedule so you can complete the course remotely and not need to come to the campus for instruction.

The course offers students three different certifications to choose from when enrolled in the Medical Billing and Coding program. Students typically seek the CPC certification through AAPC (The American Academy of Professional Coders) and become a Certified Professional Coder or CPC®. The CPC® credential is the most recognized medical coding certification in the healthcare industry. Achieving CPC® certification establishes you as a healthcare professional and increases your chances of being hired in a growing, competitive job market. The course outline below is based on a student seeking AAPC certification.This program is designed to prepare the student for employment in any or all areas of the growing medical reimbursement field.

The online program also allows students to consider and follow coursework for a track to obtain a CBCS (Certified Billing and Coding Specialist) certification through the National Healthcareer Association or the CCA (Certified Coding Association) certification through the American Health Information Management Association. Not all associations allow for online testing so be sure to check the website for details on the certifications and testing options.

This Ed2Go program includes the following with paid tuition:

  • 370 hours of course instruction
  • All textbooks, instruction, and assessments
  • One year student membership to AAPC
  • One time testing voucher for CPC Exam (AAPC) which can be administered in person or online
  • Coursework must be completed within 12 calendar months

Students should consult the following websites for information on the various certifications available nationally for Medical Billers and Coders. These are the highest regarded programs or credentials:

Course Location:

THIS COURSE IS NOT BEING OFFERED AT THIS TIME.

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Program Coordinator:

Cynthia Tolin

Non-Credit/Workforce

Medical Billing and Coding Specialist

This year long program begins with a solid foundation of knowledge and skills; medical terminology, human biology, computer skills, electronic medical records, and health care delivery.  Then builds on this foundation as the student continues with basic and advanced ICD-10, HCPCS, and CPT coding.  The entire revenue stream is examined through study of reimbursement strategies and an introduction to health information management. Expertise is gained through simulated professional practice experience and completes your preparation for professional certification. 370 hours

Degree and Certificate Credit Programs

Related Degree and Certificate Programs that may interest you.

  • Accounting A.S.
  • General Studies A.S.
  • Liberal Arts and Sciences A.A.
  • Accounting Certificate
  • Business Management Certificate

Learn about Payment Options and How to register on this page.

Important Information

Prerequisites
  • High school diploma or GED-required for testing.
  • Strong command of English language and computer skills.

    Costs

    • At $4,195.00, you will find this online program is extremely cost-effective compared to other medical coding and billing programs. The cost includes textbooks, instruction, AAPC student membership and one-time testing voucher for the program. A tuition installment plan is available for this program through Ed2Go.
    Instructors
    • All instructors are considered experts in their field and are experienced teachers. Many have master’s degrees and/or are certified by their professional organizations.

    Textbooks and Educational Materials

    • Students will receive textbooks through the mail once registration and payment to begin program is complete.

    Career Spotlight

    Where does a Medical Billing and Coding Specialist work?

    A career as a Medical Coding and Billing Specialist is dynamic, highly rewarding and well respected in health care today. Due to the rapidly growing health care industry, this career offers a good paying job and security against recession. Medical coding and billing specialists are employed by hospitals, clinics, doctors' offices, health maintenance organizations (HMO’s), long-term care facilities, mental health care facilities, government agencies and insurance companies. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for Medical Records and Health Information Technicians, including medical billing and coding professionals, is expected to increase by 8% from 2019-2029. This “faster than average for all occupations” increase is due to many factors, including the increased demand for health care services by the aging population. The average annual income for these careers in May 2020 ranges $39,190 -$50,010. The role of Medical Billing and Coding Specialist is undergoing dramatic changes with the implementation of ICD-10 coding criteria and the federally mandated compliance with electronic medical records. Our area employers state they anticipate steady growth and will strongly value the applicant with current knowledge of the industry standards.

    Certification

    • CCA – is an entry level medical coder with basic coding competencies qualified to work in a physicians office, hospital or other medical setting. 
    • CPC – Renown throughout the world of healthcare, this certification indicates mastery of medical coding and is the gold standard for physician-based medical coding.  Candidates holding this certification are highly sought after and well compensated. 
    • CBCS- is an entry level certified billing and coding specialist eligible to work in any medical setting.